The enthusiasm and spiritual joy of Friday Shabbat services touches the hearts of members of the congregation in a way never experienced before. Each and every Friday Shabbat is a joyous celebration of the Sabbath, the coming of the Sabbath bride.

As is written, “When words are not enough to tap into the spiritual joy of prayer in the presence of loved ones and dear friends, then it is necessary to turn to the music of the harp and lyre.” Am Echod uses instrument and song as was done in biblical times. Our vision of music, as a necessary component for a more meaningful service, is brought to life by our most talented Am Echod musicians. Together, they have introduced us to the exciting, powerful and enjoyable music written by the masters of our time. These melodies for prayers spoken for centuries are destined to roll around in the mind long after the service is over.

At each service, there is time to educate. To better understand the meaning of prayers said or sung, Rabbi Rabishaw takes the time to explain the essence of any one particular prayer.

The philosophy of Am Echod is that all those present at services shall become the choir. To participate and share the spirit of the Shabbat, is to be swept away by the feeling of the existence and love of God. Clapping, holding hands, tapping feet, swaying and even dancing to the joyous melodies connects one to the other and to the spirit of the Sabbath. And yet, there are the quiet moments of reflection when we pray for the healing of loved ones, when we recall those who are not with us in body but who live within our hearts and when we pray and commit to acts to make this a better world for all.

Our service also offers an opportunity to acknowledge members of the congregation. Whether young or old, Happy Birthday is sung in English and Hebrew as a sign of love for those we love. Couples with anniversaries are honored with song for their commitment to one another. Proud parents watch their children present what they have learned in Religious School or Hebrew School.

After a joyous service, people join in the social hall for a delicious kiddush. We shake hands and hug. We talk about the week that had passed and the week yet to come. We simply enjoy the company of one another. And when we leave, we leave with a smile and a feeling of being invigorated. We leave looking forward to coming together once again for the next Shabbat.

We invite you to join us for a Musical Shabbat and experience the excitement and Shabbat joy as never before.

Tot Shabbat is a wonderful opportunity to introduce a young child to the beauty of ushering in the Sabbath. Where else can a tot go on a Friday evening from 6:30 – 7:00 and help the Rabbi sing the Matza Ball song and make delicious chicken soup. “Put the chicken in the pot. Stir it up and make it hot …!

As one active member has stated, “My two children are always eager to go to Tot Shabbat each and every time. They never have a moment to sit and they really enjoy crawling around with the Rabbi. It is special when fellow congregants share remembered Sabbath stories. The children love to take part as actors in the story telling. Afterward, there is always time for a Sabbath snack after an enjoyable ½ hour of activity.”

"The whole experience is also delightful for the parents. Besides participating with their children, the parents have an opportunity to meet other parents with children of the same age. Nice relationships seem to blossom from their shared Tot Shabbat experience.

One of the commandments refers to the study of Torah. Each Saturday morning begins with a service that includes an enlightening Torah Study which deals with the Jewish text. It is through explanation, interpretation and lively dialogue that one obtains a deeper understanding of the words of the Torah.

The 100 year history of Am Echod outlines a movement from Orthodox to Conservative and from Conservative to Reform. There are several individuals who have a connection to the Conservative form of Saturday morning services. Others have transitioned to the Reform service. Out of respect to all members of the Am Echod community, two types of services are offered on Saturday mornings. On some Saturday mornings, members enjoy a meaningful “davening” of a Conservative Shabbat Service. On other Saturday mornings, Am Echod hosts a Shir L’Shabbat service or musical service. It is necessary to look at the monthly calendar for details.