Services at the Synagogue | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

The Difference Between Services in Orthodox & Reform Synagogues

Services in the Synagogue

Synagogue services are vital for both Reform and Orthodox Jewish communities, fostering unity among members.

• A Rabbi typically leads worship services in both Orthodox and Reform synagogues.
• A cantor, known as the hazzan, often stands at the front, facing the Aron Hakodesh, to lead prayers, which may be spoken, sung, or chanted.
• The siddur, a prayer book, is used during services and includes the daily prayers.
• Services begin with opening prayers, followed by the recitation of the Shema.
• The Shema is the Jewish declaration of faith in one God:

"Hear O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone" (Deuteronomy 6:4).

• The Amidah, a central prayer in Jewish worship, is performed silently while worshippers stand facing Jerusalem.
• Worshippers reflect on the prayer’s words in their minds rather than speaking them aloud.
• The Amidah consists of a series of blessings:
  • The first three blessings praise God and seek His mercy
  • The middle thirteen blessings request God’s assistance.
  • The final blessing expresses gratitude to God.
• Services include Torah readings and conclude with final prayers, such as the Aleinu, which praises God.
• Most synagogues hold daily prayers and celebrate festivals, but the primary communal gathering occurs during the Shabbat service.

The Difference Between Orthodox and Reform Synagogues

Orthodox and Reform synagogues have distinct differences in their practices and settings.