For Jews, prayer is more than words on a page. Prayer reflects Jewish history, spiritual evolution, fierce theological debate, ancient and modern practice, anguish, triumph, love, hope, and so much more. The Jewish prayerbook is the story of our people, passed down to us by countless generations that came before and expanded in our generation as a gift to those who come next.

What if you have been saying these prayers your entire life, but have never known the depth of what they contain? What if you did not grow up at Washington Hebrew? What if you did not grow up Jewish? No matter your background, Unlocking Prayer is designed for you.

Join Cantors Bortnick and Hamstra for a five-session exploration of the sacred meanings, rituals, and prayers that mark the beginning of Shabbat. We will explore the rich liturgy and traditions of Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv l’Shabbat—the Friday evening prayers that welcome Shabbat, providing a richer understanding of their meaning, structure, and relevance in contemporary Jewish life.

Throughout the course, you will:

• Learn the history and structure of the Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma’ariv services, with a focus on their evolution within the Reform tradition.
• Explore key prayers and melodies from the various sections of the service.
• Understand the spiritual significance of the Shabbat evening prayers and their role in fostering a sense of community and peace.
• Participate in experiential learning, with opportunities for singing, discussion, and personal reflection to enhance your connection to the prayers.
• Discover the Reform adaptations of these services, how they balance tradition and innovation, and learn how to lead aspects of the service confidently in a Reform congregation.

Cost is $150 for WHC Members, $175 for Non-Members, Free for Sustaining Members (Pillar+).

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