How to Find Different Shabbat Services in New York City

The range of Shabbat services in New York City is almost limitless. Of course, you can find your standard Orthodox, Conservative and Reform services. However, you can also find services with fun social components, interesting music or accommodations for those who are elderly or have disabilities.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Telephone or Internet
• Transportation

1. Contact an organization such as the 92nd Street Y or the Jewish Board of Family and Children's Services. Explain to them what you are looking for in a service and ask for a recommendation.

2. Pick up a copy of "Jewish Week." A weekly newspaper about all things Jewish in New York City. The paper may have advertisements or articles about different Shabbat services throughout the city.

3. Try out a few different types of Shabbat services. A great resource is the list of New York Synagogues that is divided both by denomination (Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Chabad and other) and by New York City Borough.

4. Pick a synagogue and attend a few services there. For example, you might chose to attend the New Shul. The New Shul has different types of Friday night services over the course of the year. The different features include music, dinners and guest speakers.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a disability and would like to attend services then you should speak to the synagogue about accommodations. For example, Central Synagogue has a call in program so that people who can't leave their homes, for whatever reason, can listen to the Shabbat services over the phone.
• Don't forget about Saturday morning services or even Havdalah services on Saturday night.
• Remember that services may start at different times depending on the time of year and the congregation.

Resources

• New York Jewish Resource Guide
• The New Shul
• List of New York City Synagogues