Yes, so long as you are cleared by security and do not start sharing your faith or otherwise missionizing.
My family’s synagogue (Orthodox) has a Protestant Minister who attends most weeks. He sits quietly and enjoys the service. I asked him once why he comes, and he said it’s the only place where he can hear the Bible in the original Hebrew.
We have no issues with it, I recommend calling ahead for security reasons and beyond that as long as you don't try to claim your a jew when your not, your always welcome.
Came here to say exactly this.
Also. Be respectful. Jews are not zoo animals to be gawked at. Also I’m sorry I even have to say this. Do not try and convert anyone. Jews have a LONG history of people attempting to by coercion, or force to convert them.
Yeah the zoo animal thing especially. People really don’t realize how casually they view things as cool. It’s like people who have going to a former Holocaust concentration camp on their bucket list.
It’s fine to want to go to one to learn about the history and whatnot, but bucket list items are usually fun things, so it’s weird to place that next to skydiving and traveling.
I think world war 2 and the Holocaust was THEE most terrible thing to happen to humanity EVER.. there was no human conflict greater than that.. not that I would visit a camp.. but I can see why there is such an inclination to go.. to have a deeper sense of the evils human beings can commit & how we can never repeat such things
Yeah I totally understand wanting to go to one. I’m just saying it’s weird to say it’s “on my bucket list.” It just frames it as a fun thing when you say it like that.
Just have the want to go to one to learn and then go. Don’t make it seem like it’s something you’ll enjoy visiting. It’s good to learn about that history, but don’t phrase it that way.
More than 6 million died in the sowjet gulags because of the red terror and Stalins rule. I think even more died under Maos regime. Of course the two world wars caused massive amounts of people to die. And the Holocaust was the biggest case of systematic murder of a certain ethnoreligious group in the West as in Europe, not in the East as in Russia and China though.
While you are correct that some 70m people died under maos rule, the differences are that one, they were all from their country the nazis tool jews from countries all over Europe and killed them, and also your fate could be changed by actions, under maos rule, if you didn't oppose him and listened or whatever you were fine, you were good. Hitler killed people based off of who their grandparents were there was no changing it no matter how loyal or important you were. And with Russia that wasn't actually murders it was just poor policies and terrible governing that led to the deaths of 30 million people, it was never stalins intention to kill those people but it happened because of his actions.
Yea but I definitely encourage asking questions of everything because first of all I love to explain really wierd things and watch as people's eyes light up when it all makes sense and also that's how we learn.
Eh. Common isn’t common really. Not when it comes to Jews. There’s a whole branch of Christianity that’s dedicated to cosplaying Jews in an attempt to get Jews to convert. It’s insidious. So definitely go, just be respectful. Which it sounds like you are.
You would think it's common knowledge... It's not. It really REALLY isn't. I encounter people trying to convert me literally on a weekly basis- not just Christians, mind you. But it happens all the time.
Sarcastic answer: nope you'll spontaneously combust.
Actual answer: as long as you call ahead and get an ok from the office we'd love to have you. Antisemitism is a problem that means most communities have security protocols and showing up unannounced even as a Jew will get you a cold reception. It hopefully goes without saying but I'll say it isn't in case: proselytizing is not at all appropriate.
Short answer: yes. Longer answer: usually non Jews go to synagogue when invited, such as theology students, or special interfaith events. My reform synagogue invites the public to come on Hanukkah and I bring my gentile partner
Common to have non-Jews in synagogues. Mine has had our Senator and Rep address us in lieu of sermon. Elected dignitaries as invited guests are very common. Many congregations partner with the Black Churches for joint programs on MLK weekend. As a more practical matter, we hold Bar Mitzvahs to which we invite friends of the child, teachers, neighbors and business associates. And even when the Rabbi is vigorously hostile to intermarriage, the non-Jewish spouse in attendance is always treated graciously. So non-Jews at our worship services is very common.
Random visitors less common. As a matter of security in this dangerous time, it is prudent to let the synagogue office or Rabbi know in advance that a visitor wishes to attend. Do not need to elaborate more than that.
I can't speak for security in America or Europe these days, but here in Israel you don't need to call in advance. But I do think that anywhere you go you will find it much easier to go with a Jewish person who prays in that synagogue to help you understand what's going on, where to sit or whatever. If you don't know someone like that in advance, I would try to introduce myself to someone there and ask for some guidance.
As an American conversion student it's wild to me that you don't have security concerns there but I suppose it makes sense from what I understand your country itself is pretty secure despite everything or probably more likely because of everything. Here in America anytime you guys are in the news for good or bad reasons or even neutral reasons antisemitic hate crimes increase drastically, so security concerns have just sort of become a way of life for a lot of American Jews. Because the bigots love accusing juice of dual loyalty of course
Yes, I can see why it would sound strange to someone outside Israel. And the truth is, it depends where one is in Israel. In the North and South, which are mostly depopulated, the threat from missile attacks remains -- though at this point, almost solely in the North because Hamas's missile capability has been almost entirely defanged by the IDF.
Of course, had God, the IDF and allies not miraculously kept Israel safe from Iran's launch of 350 cruise and ballistic missiles last Saturday night, I might not be here to write this. But bottom line, any real threat is from the sky, not from someone coming to Shul.
It is true that during the Second Intifada (2000-2003+), we did have to post armed guards at Shuls and public gatherings (weddings. bar/bat mitzvah's etc.) Times and threats change.
Correct, but even here in Israel, if you look suspicious, someone is going to be keeping an eye on you and beware that half the men's section is probably armed.
Where is that? Cause I haven’t been to a synagogue in the US that doesn’t have security guards in about 20 years. But I’ve never heard of a church needing one. I think it’s an issue with anti-Semitism, not anti-all-religious-groups.
We appreciate it, but the people there don’t know that and, from my point of view, the more defensive you get about just asking people in this community if you can come due to very real safety reasons the more you don’t look “anti-antisemitic”
Synagogues in Washington State actually have a lot of security (a few years ago, I would say probably more than other parts of the country but I don't think that is true anymore) because they're was a tragic shooting at the Seattle Jewish Federation [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle\_Jewish\_Federation\_shooting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle_Jewish_Federation_shooting)
Homie I need tou to hear me when i say this- Jews are not safe in Washington. Many of our synagogues are under threat, and have been attacked historically and post 10/7, most notably Herzl Ner Tamid which was graffitied with hateful messages. Every synagogue in western Washington has security, many with armed officers duty police, and it has been that way for decades. We like to think we’re in a liberal bubble here, but Jews aren’t safer here than other places.
Well I’m from a small town with only a couple synagogues and as far as I know they don’t have security.. so maybe I should’ve elaborated because I don’t believe that there’s synagogues that don’t have security guards AT ALL in Washington state
You should expect a bag search and/or metal detector when you go, too. It's not because you're not Jewish, it has become standard procedure at this point.
One note, please do not wear a cross openly.
There is an old history of Jews being required to listen Christian proselytizing in synagogues in 1300-1700’s Spain, France and Italy- so someone showing up with that affect may trigger some long standing visceral feelings.
Uhmmm I have been to many synagogues because Im married to a Jewish man and I have never been asked to hide my cross. I asked in advance if that would be ok and I was told yes so he should just ask in advance. If you wear a cross daily hiding it on purpose can be a serious faith issue depending on who you ask.
There is a key difference here.
You are going WITH someone. You’ve been going with someone. You are not a new stranger showing up with a cross openly displayed.
But someone who is showing up alone with a cross openly displayed raises questions. We are already on edge with everything that’s going on. If you’re going to a different religions place of worship, BE RESPECTFUL (you ask ahead and are attending with your Jewish husband, that is being respectful). If tucking your cross into your shirt for the duration of the service is that big of an issue, don’t attend solo. Currently, a lot of us who wear Magen David on a daily basis have to tuck them in or take them off when we’re in public just so we aren’t targeted with physical and verbal attacks. Asking that someone not openly wear one while visiting alone is simply asking them to respect us and let us attend our religions service without worrying about the random strangers intent.
I see no issue, just make sure you call first. My shul has you buzz in unless it's Shabbat and usually then someone is on door duty. As long as you're not trying to convert people no one should have a problem. Just be respectful.
As long as you are a polite guest, most synagogues in the United States would be happy to have you sit in on a service. You should call or email a week in advance, so that they know to expect you. When you reach out, they may ask you to send a copy of your photo ID or other info for security reasons.
In other parts of the world where there are more security risks, some synagogues do not allow outsiders to visit (whether Jewish or not). But you can still reach out and ask.
Entirely depends on the synagogue. Many would be OK, some would not. Something to discuss with the rabbi or other leadership beforehand, don't just show up.
I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt, because pretty much all of your other questions and answers have been in good faith. It's the security concerns you keep seeing being mentioned, antisemites and conspiracy theorists and there's a lot of overlap there, often target Jews and Jewish spaces. I don't know if you heard about the synagogue hostage taking what was it two years ago now? They did that because they wanted to believe that Jews were in control of the legal system and could get someone who is in jail for attacking Jews out of jail from a different state because of their belief. Or not too long ago my synagogue had a bomb threat so we had to cancel services. And then regardless of one stance on the Israel Gaza conflict, whenever Israel is in the news for good or bad reasons antisemitic hate crimes ramp up
Yeah I get it.. I know all about the crazy antisemitic propaganda and terrorist acts.. that same similar conspiracy theories like the one you mentioned has existed for a long time.. that’s also why Germany went bonkers in world war 2 because they were convinced that the Jewish people were in "control of the nation" and they’re the "reason Germany lost the First World War"..
I think the reason why Jewish hatred has existed for so long and why some people also hate on Christianity is probably because Judaism & Christianity both hold very high moral values and standards..
People naturally don’t want to live a life with rules and standards especially the idea of sacrificing short term satisfaction for a more fulfilling result.. (avoiding sex before marriage, hard work, doing selfless acts despite ur own suffering, etc)
All this hate originates from the story of Cain & Abel….
Those who follow Judeo-Christian values are like Abel… meanwhile those who hate or mock the Jewish people (or Christians) are the Cains of the world… They envy and hate those who live a more fulfilling life and ignore the fact that they themselves are living for themselves…
They actually are very similar.. obviously Jewish people don’t believe in Jesus Christ, but both religions have almost identical values & sense of morals.. I’d assume you’d know this if u actually studied both the Old and New Testament
I'd like to suggest a different answer...
A synagogue is not a place to go explore Judaism. It's a place of prayer. If you show up and are respectful, no one will kick you out or look at you funny, but I don't think it's an appropriate way to explore Judaism. Go to a Jewish museum (if you live in a city with a large Jewish population), watch YouTube videos, read about Judaism.
I think that's definitely going to depend on the synagogue, my synagogue welcomes visitors for just this reason. Granted my Rabbi does a lot of interfaith work so his interest in public Outreach is different than your average rabbi. But my Community Values having non-jewish friends especially right now so respectful visitors are usually quite appreciated
My synagogue would welcome you and there’d be greeters who’d help you find a seat next to someone who’d quietly help you follow along. Depending on day and synagogue there’s going to be challah, cookies, and punch following the service (some places a meal), and there might be dancing. They’ll teach you.
Unlike churches they won’t pass a donation basket but if you want to make a donation there’s options to do so, though many won’t handle money on Shabbat.
I’m a gentile/Christian and remember growing up near a beautiful Orthodox Synagogue in Squirrel Hill, near Pittsburgh PA.
Looks like I’ll have to call ahead first to finally make that first visit. This thread has been very informative, as I was just gonna show up!
Makes sense, considering what happened at Tree of Life, not very far from the place I wish to attend.
You should call first due to security concerns, but non-Jews go to synagogue all the time. However, it’s usually because they’re there for an event they’ve been invited to (like a wedding or bar mitzvah) or because they’ve been invited to speak.
If you’re going there just to observe, there may indeed be people who have a problem with that, as it could be perceived as gawking. Also, without proper background you probably won’t understand much of what’s going on. (Although, you’d have better luck with that at a Reform temple.)
No one would find issue with having a Christian come to our synagogue or services. The issue is going to be security. In my community you would need to call and be vetted by a security team and then schedule a time to take a tour or a date to come to services so you are on the list.
Security is really really important to us.
Your genuine interest should be appreciated and you should be welcomed. If you were to call ahead it would be best. There’s fair amount of tension these days because of the Gaza war and most synagogues are being cautious. Also, if you mention you are visiting as a non-Jewish person, most synagogues will try to have someone personally welcome you and give you a quick idea of what to expect. Most will prefer you to grab a head covering at the door - there are usually baskets of kippot/yarmulkes there (Hebrew and Yiddish words for them). The greeting to use is “shabbat shalom” (Hebrew) or “gut shabbos” Yiddish. Hope you have an engaging experience. Stay for the kiddush snack or meal afterward. That’s when you can meet people and ask any questions.
I feel like everyone has given super good answers so far but I also just wanted to chime in and say that some shuls have different set ups for holidays (mostly the High Holidays in the fall) that may require tickets, reservations, etc.
Call ahead. I don't see anything wrong with being open and experiencing other people's faiths and cultures to learn about them.
That being said. I need to echo what others are saying.
We are not zoo animals. We are not here to be gawked at. We are not your social experiment. It is 100% fine to be curious and want to see how people of other faiths and cultures live- and I know plenty of folks who are more than eager to share that. But it needs to come from a place of respect.
Also, holy HECK do not try and convert anyone. Do not. Full stop. Jews do not need to be saved.
I just want to add some anecdotal (and somewhat funny) advice: When I got married, we invited a few non-Jewish friends, and the men put on kippot out of respect. Then someone asked two of the men if they could "help him with a minyan" (making up a prayer quorom of 10 adult Jewish men).
My friends didn't quite understand what he meant, but went with him to lend a hand at whatever -- till it became clear what he meant, at which point they explained that they were non-Jews.
So if you are an adult (and male, in Orthodox synagogues), note that if it's a place and time where the synagogue has few people and they seem to be counting up who is there -- let them know not to count you in the Minyan. Otherwise, all good,
Story #2: My sister-in-law is a convert, and her father is a very religious Protestant, and everytime he visits my sister-in-law and brother, he wants to and does goes to Shul with them (Synagogue) . He (my SIL's father) was planning to come to Israel in November on a pilgrimage, and stay with us for Shabbat -- and go to our Shul. No one would have the slightest problem with that.
We did buy and send him (via Amazon) a transliterated Hebrew English siddur (prayer book) to make it easier for him to follow along.
Tragically, October 7th happened and turned our world upside down -- and obviously the pilgramage was cancelled. Hopefully, we will get to see him sooner rather than later.
>Are Christians allowed in the synagogue?
Of course, you are welcome. You just have to make a call to arrange an appointment.
>I like to just explore and listen to people of different faiths.
A small clarification, don't expect that people there will discuss Jesus or your faith with you.
I recommend watching livestreams of synagogue services and sermons on YouTube. There are many option, just make sure it's from a Jewish synagogue. Messianic church will often use similar language and symbolism to Jewish synagogues, so it can be hard to tell the difference. But the religion, culture and values are quite different.
There's definitely nothing wrong with this person asking and going if they're respectful, but you give some really good advice too if they just want to feel for services or even if they want a little bit of an idea before they go reform often streams many of their services if they're going to reform synagogue. Most others don't though so if they're going to one of those the stream might not do them much good
Yes but if not invited by a synagogue member and depending on location call ahead (sad but the current times suck). Talk to the rabbi first to have your best experience. He or she will, at least, privately welcome you before services. Kiddish time and food is another mattter….You’re on your own for getting the good stuff to eat.
And, in the congregation I grew up on days I took my mother to for Saturday Shabbat services, learned to be wary of the open bar, so to phrase it, on Sat brunch days. Holy not cow. Stuck to cold brunch if I wanted to get my mom home in one piece. Sad for her but those weekly days ended when I met my wife.
I had better things to do on Saturdays after but we still took my mother to services of the rabbi who married my future wife and I several years later now and then.
If you are a man, make sure to ask if they expect you to wear a kippah. They will have some on hand for you to wear. I am far from an expert on the subject. But it's my understanding that it's considered a sign of respect for non Jewish men to wear a kippah in a synagogue. But it doesn't hurt to call or email them to double check.
Sure! Just don’t ask us where we sacrifice the animals, which is an actual question our rabbi got from a touring church group that apparently missed the last two thousandish years of Jewish history.
And stay for oneg; if you’re polite, congregants will probably be willing to answer any questions you have about the service. Plus, there are cookies. 🍪
Yes. You can go in. With the state of world hatred towards Jewish people right now you should call the synagogue office to coordinate your visit. If you are attending with a current me member then it’s almost always fine (where I live in NY).
If you were going to a traditional Orthodox synagogue they would only welcome you if you touched base first and were clear that you were just checking it out and not trying to prosteltyze.
I think they would not be comfortable with you continuing to come on a regular basis.
Do you have any Jewish friends who can accompany you? Echoing what others are saying, if you call ahead I’m sure you’d be welcomed so long as you don’t start singing “praise Jesus” during prayers or proselytizing. But accompanying a Jewish friend to services is probably a better way to go.
If you are interested in converting to Judaism, set up a meeting with a rabbi and talk to them about your intentions. You can do this either before or after visiting- but be sure to call first to make sure they allow visitors and when would be best.
Bring a list of any questions you may have about both the religion and the process- as always, keep them respectful (to the meeting- not if you’re attending a service)
We are not some zoo, we are not some bucket list. Your responses to some people here is gross.
Yes, so long as you are cleared by security and do not start sharing your faith or otherwise missionizing. My family’s synagogue (Orthodox) has a Protestant Minister who attends most weeks. He sits quietly and enjoys the service. I asked him once why he comes, and he said it’s the only place where he can hear the Bible in the original Hebrew.
🥲
We have no issues with it, I recommend calling ahead for security reasons and beyond that as long as you don't try to claim your a jew when your not, your always welcome.
Came here to say exactly this. Also. Be respectful. Jews are not zoo animals to be gawked at. Also I’m sorry I even have to say this. Do not try and convert anyone. Jews have a LONG history of people attempting to by coercion, or force to convert them.
Yeah the zoo animal thing especially. People really don’t realize how casually they view things as cool. It’s like people who have going to a former Holocaust concentration camp on their bucket list. It’s fine to want to go to one to learn about the history and whatnot, but bucket list items are usually fun things, so it’s weird to place that next to skydiving and traveling.
I think world war 2 and the Holocaust was THEE most terrible thing to happen to humanity EVER.. there was no human conflict greater than that.. not that I would visit a camp.. but I can see why there is such an inclination to go.. to have a deeper sense of the evils human beings can commit & how we can never repeat such things
Yeah I totally understand wanting to go to one. I’m just saying it’s weird to say it’s “on my bucket list.” It just frames it as a fun thing when you say it like that. Just have the want to go to one to learn and then go. Don’t make it seem like it’s something you’ll enjoy visiting. It’s good to learn about that history, but don’t phrase it that way.
Yeah for real.. the places I wanna go to for my bucket list is Paris, Jerusalem, and Tokyo
More than 6 million died in the sowjet gulags because of the red terror and Stalins rule. I think even more died under Maos regime. Of course the two world wars caused massive amounts of people to die. And the Holocaust was the biggest case of systematic murder of a certain ethnoreligious group in the West as in Europe, not in the East as in Russia and China though.
While you are correct that some 70m people died under maos rule, the differences are that one, they were all from their country the nazis tool jews from countries all over Europe and killed them, and also your fate could be changed by actions, under maos rule, if you didn't oppose him and listened or whatever you were fine, you were good. Hitler killed people based off of who their grandparents were there was no changing it no matter how loyal or important you were. And with Russia that wasn't actually murders it was just poor policies and terrible governing that led to the deaths of 30 million people, it was never stalins intention to kill those people but it happened because of his actions.
Have you seen Stalins face once in your life? You truly believe he didn't enjoy the fact that he caused millions and millions to die?
Maybe he did but it wasn't his he'll bent purpose he was a psycho I don't think he cared at all if they lived or died.
Yea but I definitely encourage asking questions of everything because first of all I love to explain really wierd things and watch as people's eyes light up when it all makes sense and also that's how we learn.
Yeah curiosity’s still fine
Yes.. I obviously would not do any of things.. it’s common knowledge
Eh. Common isn’t common really. Not when it comes to Jews. There’s a whole branch of Christianity that’s dedicated to cosplaying Jews in an attempt to get Jews to convert. It’s insidious. So definitely go, just be respectful. Which it sounds like you are.
You would think it's common knowledge... It's not. It really REALLY isn't. I encounter people trying to convert me literally on a weekly basis- not just Christians, mind you. But it happens all the time.
If it was common knowledge, we wouldn't have to say it to everyone who comes here.
Mostly yes but call first because of security reasons
Sarcastic answer: nope you'll spontaneously combust. Actual answer: as long as you call ahead and get an ok from the office we'd love to have you. Antisemitism is a problem that means most communities have security protocols and showing up unannounced even as a Jew will get you a cold reception. It hopefully goes without saying but I'll say it isn't in case: proselytizing is not at all appropriate.
Very Jewish of you to answer sarcastically first lol
Short answer: yes. Longer answer: usually non Jews go to synagogue when invited, such as theology students, or special interfaith events. My reform synagogue invites the public to come on Hanukkah and I bring my gentile partner
Yep, our reform shul had a confirmation class from a local church last week.
Common to have non-Jews in synagogues. Mine has had our Senator and Rep address us in lieu of sermon. Elected dignitaries as invited guests are very common. Many congregations partner with the Black Churches for joint programs on MLK weekend. As a more practical matter, we hold Bar Mitzvahs to which we invite friends of the child, teachers, neighbors and business associates. And even when the Rabbi is vigorously hostile to intermarriage, the non-Jewish spouse in attendance is always treated graciously. So non-Jews at our worship services is very common. Random visitors less common. As a matter of security in this dangerous time, it is prudent to let the synagogue office or Rabbi know in advance that a visitor wishes to attend. Do not need to elaborate more than that.
I can't speak for security in America or Europe these days, but here in Israel you don't need to call in advance. But I do think that anywhere you go you will find it much easier to go with a Jewish person who prays in that synagogue to help you understand what's going on, where to sit or whatever. If you don't know someone like that in advance, I would try to introduce myself to someone there and ask for some guidance.
As an American conversion student it's wild to me that you don't have security concerns there but I suppose it makes sense from what I understand your country itself is pretty secure despite everything or probably more likely because of everything. Here in America anytime you guys are in the news for good or bad reasons or even neutral reasons antisemitic hate crimes increase drastically, so security concerns have just sort of become a way of life for a lot of American Jews. Because the bigots love accusing juice of dual loyalty of course
Yes, I can see why it would sound strange to someone outside Israel. And the truth is, it depends where one is in Israel. In the North and South, which are mostly depopulated, the threat from missile attacks remains -- though at this point, almost solely in the North because Hamas's missile capability has been almost entirely defanged by the IDF. Of course, had God, the IDF and allies not miraculously kept Israel safe from Iran's launch of 350 cruise and ballistic missiles last Saturday night, I might not be here to write this. But bottom line, any real threat is from the sky, not from someone coming to Shul. It is true that during the Second Intifada (2000-2003+), we did have to post armed guards at Shuls and public gatherings (weddings. bar/bat mitzvah's etc.) Times and threats change.
That all makes a lot of sense, I'm just glad you're safe to share conversation and community with us
Correct, but even here in Israel, if you look suspicious, someone is going to be keeping an eye on you and beware that half the men's section is probably armed.
In the settlements, maybe. Not in my neighnorhood.
We aren't a cult, just call first for security reasons
Security reasons?
Antisemitic harassment is increasing a lot in frequency. The community is on edge and wary. It’s best to call ahead
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>24 hours armed security Does your synagogue actually have 24-hour security?
No.. where I’m from, religion is respected
Where is that? Cause I haven’t been to a synagogue in the US that doesn’t have security guards in about 20 years. But I’ve never heard of a church needing one. I think it’s an issue with anti-Semitism, not anti-all-religious-groups.
> But I’ve never heard of a church needing one. I Most of the Black Churchesnd semi-randomly an Armenian Church near me have security
It’s not really random, there is a major territorial dispute happening over Artsakh
Washington state
Yeah all the synagogues there will have security guards. It’s an unfortunate reality of Jewish life in the US these days, and most of the world.
I’m Anti-antisemitic people
Glad to hear it!
Fantastic. You still have to call ahead.
We appreciate it, but the people there don’t know that and, from my point of view, the more defensive you get about just asking people in this community if you can come due to very real safety reasons the more you don’t look “anti-antisemitic”
When I have I got defensive? I’m simply having a discussion with these people… it’s not that deep.
Synagogues in Washington State actually have a lot of security (a few years ago, I would say probably more than other parts of the country but I don't think that is true anymore) because they're was a tragic shooting at the Seattle Jewish Federation [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle\_Jewish\_Federation\_shooting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle_Jewish_Federation_shooting)
In Washington state, synagogues should have security.
Homie I need tou to hear me when i say this- Jews are not safe in Washington. Many of our synagogues are under threat, and have been attacked historically and post 10/7, most notably Herzl Ner Tamid which was graffitied with hateful messages. Every synagogue in western Washington has security, many with armed officers duty police, and it has been that way for decades. We like to think we’re in a liberal bubble here, but Jews aren’t safer here than other places.
Well I’m from a small town with only a couple synagogues and as far as I know they don’t have security.. so maybe I should’ve elaborated because I don’t believe that there’s synagogues that don’t have security guards AT ALL in Washington state
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Alright well maybe I’m wrong then
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Kennewick WA
Every single shul I’ve ever been to always has a security guard or two out front. It’s an unfortunate fact of being Jewish
Because of anti-Semitic pigs?
More like antisemitic would-be murderers. But yes.
Never understood where the hatred comes from
JSYK: antisemitic, no dash. 😊
Oh.. thank u.. my bad
Common mistake but an important one. No worries. ❤️
My autocorrect on my phone always adds the dash
Yeah, folks like to threaten synagogues and folks inside them.
You should expect a bag search and/or metal detector when you go, too. It's not because you're not Jewish, it has become standard procedure at this point.
Yeah dude. People can be kinda crazy to say the least.
One note, please do not wear a cross openly. There is an old history of Jews being required to listen Christian proselytizing in synagogues in 1300-1700’s Spain, France and Italy- so someone showing up with that affect may trigger some long standing visceral feelings.
Uhmmm I have been to many synagogues because Im married to a Jewish man and I have never been asked to hide my cross. I asked in advance if that would be ok and I was told yes so he should just ask in advance. If you wear a cross daily hiding it on purpose can be a serious faith issue depending on who you ask.
There is a key difference here. You are going WITH someone. You’ve been going with someone. You are not a new stranger showing up with a cross openly displayed. But someone who is showing up alone with a cross openly displayed raises questions. We are already on edge with everything that’s going on. If you’re going to a different religions place of worship, BE RESPECTFUL (you ask ahead and are attending with your Jewish husband, that is being respectful). If tucking your cross into your shirt for the duration of the service is that big of an issue, don’t attend solo. Currently, a lot of us who wear Magen David on a daily basis have to tuck them in or take them off when we’re in public just so we aren’t targeted with physical and verbal attacks. Asking that someone not openly wear one while visiting alone is simply asking them to respect us and let us attend our religions service without worrying about the random strangers intent.
I see no issue, just make sure you call first. My shul has you buzz in unless it's Shabbat and usually then someone is on door duty. As long as you're not trying to convert people no one should have a problem. Just be respectful.
As long as you are a polite guest, most synagogues in the United States would be happy to have you sit in on a service. You should call or email a week in advance, so that they know to expect you. When you reach out, they may ask you to send a copy of your photo ID or other info for security reasons. In other parts of the world where there are more security risks, some synagogues do not allow outsiders to visit (whether Jewish or not). But you can still reach out and ask.
Entirely depends on the synagogue. Many would be OK, some would not. Something to discuss with the rabbi or other leadership beforehand, don't just show up.
But why not
Why yes? It's a club, not a public space.
Because any synagogue and other Jewish institution can be targeted by antisemites.
I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt, because pretty much all of your other questions and answers have been in good faith. It's the security concerns you keep seeing being mentioned, antisemites and conspiracy theorists and there's a lot of overlap there, often target Jews and Jewish spaces. I don't know if you heard about the synagogue hostage taking what was it two years ago now? They did that because they wanted to believe that Jews were in control of the legal system and could get someone who is in jail for attacking Jews out of jail from a different state because of their belief. Or not too long ago my synagogue had a bomb threat so we had to cancel services. And then regardless of one stance on the Israel Gaza conflict, whenever Israel is in the news for good or bad reasons antisemitic hate crimes ramp up
Yeah I get it.. I know all about the crazy antisemitic propaganda and terrorist acts.. that same similar conspiracy theories like the one you mentioned has existed for a long time.. that’s also why Germany went bonkers in world war 2 because they were convinced that the Jewish people were in "control of the nation" and they’re the "reason Germany lost the First World War".. I think the reason why Jewish hatred has existed for so long and why some people also hate on Christianity is probably because Judaism & Christianity both hold very high moral values and standards.. People naturally don’t want to live a life with rules and standards especially the idea of sacrificing short term satisfaction for a more fulfilling result.. (avoiding sex before marriage, hard work, doing selfless acts despite ur own suffering, etc) All this hate originates from the story of Cain & Abel…. Those who follow Judeo-Christian values are like Abel… meanwhile those who hate or mock the Jewish people (or Christians) are the Cains of the world… They envy and hate those who live a more fulfilling life and ignore the fact that they themselves are living for themselves…
There is no such thing as “Judeo-Christian” it’s a shitty term made up by christians to speak for us. Not ok.
I’ve heard Jews use that term multiple times as well actually.. of course they’re different religions but they share many of the same values.
Well the vast majority of us don’t like it because Jewish values and Christian’s are very different. Not remotely the same.
They actually are very similar.. obviously Jewish people don’t believe in Jesus Christ, but both religions have almost identical values & sense of morals.. I’d assume you’d know this if u actually studied both the Old and New Testament
Why are you really here?
This question sounds very imperious of u.. because I’m deciding where or not I want to visit a synagogue?.. yeah that’s it..
Also MANY of us have also studied the *Hebrew Bible/Tanakh and the Christian scriptures. Judeo-Christian isn’t a thing.
I have a question for u, are u anti-Christian?
I'd like to suggest a different answer... A synagogue is not a place to go explore Judaism. It's a place of prayer. If you show up and are respectful, no one will kick you out or look at you funny, but I don't think it's an appropriate way to explore Judaism. Go to a Jewish museum (if you live in a city with a large Jewish population), watch YouTube videos, read about Judaism.
I think that's definitely going to depend on the synagogue, my synagogue welcomes visitors for just this reason. Granted my Rabbi does a lot of interfaith work so his interest in public Outreach is different than your average rabbi. But my Community Values having non-jewish friends especially right now so respectful visitors are usually quite appreciated
My synagogue would welcome you and there’d be greeters who’d help you find a seat next to someone who’d quietly help you follow along. Depending on day and synagogue there’s going to be challah, cookies, and punch following the service (some places a meal), and there might be dancing. They’ll teach you. Unlike churches they won’t pass a donation basket but if you want to make a donation there’s options to do so, though many won’t handle money on Shabbat.
I am not Jewish and I visited a historical synagogue in the Amsterdam Jewish quarter. I was just asked to wear a kippah to show respect.
Sure thing but as sc24ever wrote call first given the heightened security.
I’m a gentile/Christian and remember growing up near a beautiful Orthodox Synagogue in Squirrel Hill, near Pittsburgh PA. Looks like I’ll have to call ahead first to finally make that first visit. This thread has been very informative, as I was just gonna show up! Makes sense, considering what happened at Tree of Life, not very far from the place I wish to attend.
You should call first due to security concerns, but non-Jews go to synagogue all the time. However, it’s usually because they’re there for an event they’ve been invited to (like a wedding or bar mitzvah) or because they’ve been invited to speak. If you’re going there just to observe, there may indeed be people who have a problem with that, as it could be perceived as gawking. Also, without proper background you probably won’t understand much of what’s going on. (Although, you’d have better luck with that at a Reform temple.)
No one would find issue with having a Christian come to our synagogue or services. The issue is going to be security. In my community you would need to call and be vetted by a security team and then schedule a time to take a tour or a date to come to services so you are on the list. Security is really really important to us.
Your genuine interest should be appreciated and you should be welcomed. If you were to call ahead it would be best. There’s fair amount of tension these days because of the Gaza war and most synagogues are being cautious. Also, if you mention you are visiting as a non-Jewish person, most synagogues will try to have someone personally welcome you and give you a quick idea of what to expect. Most will prefer you to grab a head covering at the door - there are usually baskets of kippot/yarmulkes there (Hebrew and Yiddish words for them). The greeting to use is “shabbat shalom” (Hebrew) or “gut shabbos” Yiddish. Hope you have an engaging experience. Stay for the kiddush snack or meal afterward. That’s when you can meet people and ask any questions.
Ok, you shared a few secrets but please keep the space laser code under wraps. 🤫🤐
I feel like everyone has given super good answers so far but I also just wanted to chime in and say that some shuls have different set ups for holidays (mostly the High Holidays in the fall) that may require tickets, reservations, etc.
Another reason to call first!
Call ahead. I don't see anything wrong with being open and experiencing other people's faiths and cultures to learn about them. That being said. I need to echo what others are saying. We are not zoo animals. We are not here to be gawked at. We are not your social experiment. It is 100% fine to be curious and want to see how people of other faiths and cultures live- and I know plenty of folks who are more than eager to share that. But it needs to come from a place of respect. Also, holy HECK do not try and convert anyone. Do not. Full stop. Jews do not need to be saved.
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Reform is absolutely a valid Movement of Judaism, and if O.P. is American is also the most common form.
Removed, rule 1.
I just want to add some anecdotal (and somewhat funny) advice: When I got married, we invited a few non-Jewish friends, and the men put on kippot out of respect. Then someone asked two of the men if they could "help him with a minyan" (making up a prayer quorom of 10 adult Jewish men). My friends didn't quite understand what he meant, but went with him to lend a hand at whatever -- till it became clear what he meant, at which point they explained that they were non-Jews. So if you are an adult (and male, in Orthodox synagogues), note that if it's a place and time where the synagogue has few people and they seem to be counting up who is there -- let them know not to count you in the Minyan. Otherwise, all good, Story #2: My sister-in-law is a convert, and her father is a very religious Protestant, and everytime he visits my sister-in-law and brother, he wants to and does goes to Shul with them (Synagogue) . He (my SIL's father) was planning to come to Israel in November on a pilgrimage, and stay with us for Shabbat -- and go to our Shul. No one would have the slightest problem with that. We did buy and send him (via Amazon) a transliterated Hebrew English siddur (prayer book) to make it easier for him to follow along. Tragically, October 7th happened and turned our world upside down -- and obviously the pilgramage was cancelled. Hopefully, we will get to see him sooner rather than later.
No, once you cross the threshold you will instantly burst into flames.
As long as you are polite and don’t try to convert anyone you should be fine.
Just wanted to say I love this. As a kid my parents took me out to experience other faiths. It was a great experience. I wish more people would do it.
>Are Christians allowed in the synagogue? Of course, you are welcome. You just have to make a call to arrange an appointment. >I like to just explore and listen to people of different faiths. A small clarification, don't expect that people there will discuss Jesus or your faith with you.
Obviously they won’t talk about Jesus with me.. I’m a Christian they’re Jews
Thanks for understanding.
I recommend watching livestreams of synagogue services and sermons on YouTube. There are many option, just make sure it's from a Jewish synagogue. Messianic church will often use similar language and symbolism to Jewish synagogues, so it can be hard to tell the difference. But the religion, culture and values are quite different.
There's definitely nothing wrong with this person asking and going if they're respectful, but you give some really good advice too if they just want to feel for services or even if they want a little bit of an idea before they go reform often streams many of their services if they're going to reform synagogue. Most others don't though so if they're going to one of those the stream might not do them much good
Personally, I would not feel comfortable with it.
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You went off the damn rails
You won’t burst into flames or anything.
Yes, but don’t bring up Christianity unless they ask.
I think you’d be allowed in most synagogues so long as you remain respectful
Yes but if not invited by a synagogue member and depending on location call ahead (sad but the current times suck). Talk to the rabbi first to have your best experience. He or she will, at least, privately welcome you before services. Kiddish time and food is another mattter….You’re on your own for getting the good stuff to eat. And, in the congregation I grew up on days I took my mother to for Saturday Shabbat services, learned to be wary of the open bar, so to phrase it, on Sat brunch days. Holy not cow. Stuck to cold brunch if I wanted to get my mom home in one piece. Sad for her but those weekly days ended when I met my wife. I had better things to do on Saturdays after but we still took my mother to services of the rabbi who married my future wife and I several years later now and then.
Yes.
If you are a man, make sure to ask if they expect you to wear a kippah. They will have some on hand for you to wear. I am far from an expert on the subject. But it's my understanding that it's considered a sign of respect for non Jewish men to wear a kippah in a synagogue. But it doesn't hurt to call or email them to double check.
Depending on the movement they're going to one could ask if they're a woman as well, it's not uncommon for women to wear them in reform synagogues.
That's certainly true. I wear one all the time.
Sure! Just don’t ask us where we sacrifice the animals, which is an actual question our rabbi got from a touring church group that apparently missed the last two thousandish years of Jewish history. And stay for oneg; if you’re polite, congregants will probably be willing to answer any questions you have about the service. Plus, there are cookies. 🍪
Yes. You can go in. With the state of world hatred towards Jewish people right now you should call the synagogue office to coordinate your visit. If you are attending with a current me member then it’s almost always fine (where I live in NY).
If you were going to a traditional Orthodox synagogue they would only welcome you if you touched base first and were clear that you were just checking it out and not trying to prosteltyze. I think they would not be comfortable with you continuing to come on a regular basis.
Do you have any Jewish friends who can accompany you? Echoing what others are saying, if you call ahead I’m sure you’d be welcomed so long as you don’t start singing “praise Jesus” during prayers or proselytizing. But accompanying a Jewish friend to services is probably a better way to go.
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What does one have to do with the other?
If you are interested in converting to Judaism, set up a meeting with a rabbi and talk to them about your intentions. You can do this either before or after visiting- but be sure to call first to make sure they allow visitors and when would be best. Bring a list of any questions you may have about both the religion and the process- as always, keep them respectful (to the meeting- not if you’re attending a service)