Tomorrow will be my first ever Shabbat service at my local synagogue and I’m bursting with excitement, nerves, and questions. I’ve come to reddit as I don’t actually have any jewish friends (I just moved). I will be meeting with the local synagogue’s Rabbi soon and I’m looking to begin my conversion process. I’ve got several questions:
What is something appropriate to wear? As background information, I grew up non-denominational Christian. We wore our “Sunday best” to church, but I have no desire to take what I learned in my past church to the synagogue. Keep in mind, the local synagogue I’m visiting tomorrow is of a reform congregation. I am thinking of wearing a plaid blazer, a turtle neck, and slacks. Would this be an appropriate outfit?
Should I wear a yarmulke? As background information, I am a man. Even though I am not Jewish, I want to do what is respectful. I do not currently own a yarmulke and have never worn one.
Is there a distinct time for “offerings” or “charity” during a Friday Shabbat service? If so, is there a standard amount one might give?
This is a bit of a stupid question that I don’t think anyone else would think twice about, but I will ask it anyway. Upon reaching out to the synagogue, the member who messaged me explained that snack time will be at 5:30 and service will start at 6. Unrelated to my religious background and instead just a part of my familial culture, I can sometimes feel nervous when eating other’s food if I did nothing to supply or prepare it. I also recognize that some people and cultures view it as rude for others to not partake in food offered to them. Please do not look too deeply into this question as I have a general issue with food intake, but I just want to be respectful upon entering the synagogue.
What is socialization typically like in the synagogue, for you? Again, I will be attending Shabbat at a reform synagogue, so please keep this in mind. I ask how it is for you as I definitely understand all people are different; I imagine there is much variety in socialization in different synagogues, states, et cetera. I am very good at socializing, but I typically have to evaluate a room thoroughly or I’ll feel like I’m objectively not doing a good job at it and may seem very strange very fast. In your experience, are members of the synagogue interested in new comers? Do people keep to their close friends and families? Is it likely people will approach me first and, if not, is it okay if I approach others?
Please let me know if I’ve said anything incorrectly in my writing. Thank you all for the help!
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