First Time Shabbat Visitors

We're glad you are interested in Congregation Bonai Shalom!

In Hebrew, Congregation Bonai Shalom (CBS), means ‘Builder of Peace.’ CBS is associated with the Conservative movement of Judaism. While maintaining its identity as Boulder’s conservative egalitarian synagogue, Bonai Shalom is a diverse, multi-generational congregation. We have, as our foundation, a warm, accepting and participating membership. We believe that our rabbi, Rabbi Marc Soloway, has been able to build on this foundation through his enthusiasm and spirituality.

We pride ourselves on our warm, inviting atmosphere, our deep commitment to Jewish values, and our love of Judaism.  We value learning and personal growth, and see it as our mission to provide ways for all our members to move forward Jewishly, whatever that means to you.

Like most synagogues, we are a membership organization.  Members make a financial contribution to the community, which then allows you access to our schools, our classes, our clergy, participating in acts of tikkun olam and enjoying all the benefits of being part of a Jewish sacred community, where you matter.

Please visit us anytime!  Shabbat services are a great way to get to know us and for us to know you.  And they happen EVERY Saturday morning and are followed by a delicious Kiddush lunch!

If you are unfamiliar with our Shabbat services or a visiting for a simcha (joyous life cycle event) please read on!

Shabbat begins at sundown on Friday and continues until nightfall on Saturday. This twenty-five hour period, established by God in the Ten Commandments, is a weekly spiritual pause during which we change the pace of our daily routines in order to re-energize our lives. We do this though observance of the special laws and commandments for Shabbat. Among the most important are prayer, meditation and study, all of which are components of our Shabbat morning service. We invite your participation as we sing and pray together.

We hope to provide you with the information you need to understand, feel comfortable, and get the most from your visit. If  you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to call the office at 303-442-6605 or email us at office@bonaishalom.org

CUSTOMS AND PRACTICES:

When attending services, please dress modestly.  Boys and men are asked to cover their heads as a sign of respect in the Sanctuary by wearing kippot (also known as yarmulkes or skullcaps). They are available in the foyer. Women may also wish to cover their heads, but it is not required. Jewish men and some women wear a Tallit (prayer shawl) during services as well.

Please do not write or take notes, use cell phones or other electronic devices, use a camera or take pictures, or smoke.