Welcome! It is a real joy for us to meet newcomers and to share with you about all the good things God is doing in our community. Many people often ask, "what should I wear?" Our answer is comfort and modesty is best. We don't have a "dress code." Members typically dress "business casual." For those who are not Jewish or unfamiliar with the traditions of ritual garments, kippot and tallitot are provided but not required. Upon arrival, it is our intention that you are greeted by friendly ushers who will welcome you to our congregation. Our greeters and ushers can direct you to the sanctuary, coat areas and restrooms and answer some general questions about Tikvat. Each guest is given a free gift bag full of information, literature about Messianic Judaism and Tikvat Yisrael. Also, a "Guest Card" is included for visitors to fill out in order to stay in touch with us. Prayer Request cards are also available in the seat backs. Ushers will also be glad to assist you in finding a seat for your family in the sanctuary for worship even after services have begun.
Likewise, Tikvat Yisrael is committed to the security of all of our guests and members. Various security measures have been in place for many years to ensure the due diligence of safety and security on our campus. Uniformed and undercover officers are always on duty at all services and we ask that visitors do not bring large bags with them into the facility. They may be subject to search. All childcare workers and volunteer staff are carefully screened and trained on child safety measures.
A nursery for child care for ages 0-4 years old is available with two adult trained staff and livestream of the service is on the monitors for parents who wish to be in the nursery with their children and view the service at the same time. Parents are ultimately responsible for their children and are required to check them in and sign them out of the nursery.
During the sermon, a 30 minute "Shabbat School" Lesson is available for Elementary age children 5-11 years old. Again, parents are encouraged to sign in and check out their children during and after the service. Again, two adults are always staffed. Parents are always ultimately responsible for the welfare of their children while attending services. Parents will be summoned by an usher to attend to their children who may need their attention while participating in the nursery or Shabbat School programs. Likewise, it is parents who will be required to attend to their own children in the restrooms. Tikvat staff does NOT change diapers. However, diaper changing stations are available in the men's and women's facilities. Children are not permitted to run unsupervised anywhere on our campus. Parents are responsible for the discipline of their own children. We encourage children to participate in the Torah procession and even carry small Torah scrolls, however parents must accompany them so they do not injure themselves. Minors over the age of 12, are always encouraged to remain in the service with their families. Tikvat does have weekly Youth Group programs for this age group outside of the Shabbat service. Loitering anywhere in the building our outside during services is not permitted.
Tikvat does NOT solicit guests to make any donations. Nor does Tikvat Yisrael require "dues" to its members. Donations are made primarily by members and regular attendees and are completely voluntary. Tikvat does teach the Biblical mandate on tithing for those who are committed to the congregation. A tzedakkah box is available at the front entrance of the sanctuary, and ushers also will pass a basked during an offertory service. All worshippers are welcome to give either way. Online giving is also available on our donation page, and Offering Envelopes are available in all seats that can be used for designation of donations. Cash, checks, credit and debit cards can all be accepted for donations All envelopes are carefully shredded during the processing of all donations. All donations are tax deductible according to law. See our Financial Policy page for more information.
Shabbat service begins promptly at 10:30 a.m. in person and Livestream. After services begin, the main entrance is locked at approximately 11:00 a.m., (exits are always unlocked), however, for the security of our congregation, if you arrive late, please speak to the security guard. A photo ID may be required. After service, Challah and coffee are served, and from time to time an "Oneg" (delightful meal) may also be served. Beginner's classes are often offered after services in 10 week increments and lunch is provided free for those who register for the class. See the events page for announcements on Beginner's Classes and when they are offered.
We hope that this explanation helps you know what to expect on your first visit to Tikvat Yisrael.
