The First Narayever was originally an Orthodox synagogue,
which followed the traditions of their Galician heritage.
Orthodox Jews adhere to the halakhah ,
following the 613 mitzvot set out in the Torah.
During
the early 1980s, the Synagogue became Orthodox-egalitarian,
meaning that the First Narayever still subscribes to the
traditional teachings of the Torah, but applies an equal
opportunity policy for both men and women. The move to
egalitarianism has not changed the services in substantive
ways—in that it follows the traditional liturgy,
with changes made with respect to gender egalitarianism
and relies on the Birnbaum sidur (nusach
Sefarad )
for Shabbat
and High Holiday
services—but allows women to sit with the men and
also take a more active role in services.
The
First Narayever contributes to the congregation’s
religious education and development by providing informal
meetings, discussion groups, post-service lectures and
evening classes. Rabbi
Elkin
holds an on-going STEP programme (Shaliah Tsibor
Education Program), which is designed to teach members
how to lead services. All congregation members are encouraged
to participate and take an active role in davening .
In addition, the Synagogue has organized an Adult Education
Program that explores the connection between Judaism and
the Arts. The range of programs offered within this area,
including dance, drama, music, literature, visual arts
and architecture, reflects the diversity of the topic.
Furthermore, the First Narayever holds weekly discussions
of the Torah readings on Shabbat
afternoons.
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