Friday Night

Like much of our prayer life, Friday nights at GJC are about variety. We offer different services on different weeks, each of which has a special structure, orientation, and feel. Try them out and see how they strike you!

“I have always liked the way the GJC community comes together on Friday nights. There is a special warmth and energy when those who may pray separately on Saturday mornings all join together in singing and dancing. This service is so much a part of my life that I will not let my employer keep me late on Fridays.” – Ed Lake

Kol Zimrah

“Kol Zimrah” means “the sound of singing.” This special musical service is led by Rabbi Adam Zeff and Executive Director Nina Peskin. Kol Zimrah features original melodies and kavanot (short spiritual reflections) rather than a formal teaching. The service invites us to enter the peaceful and reflective space of Shabbat by chanting together, hearing the sound of our voices rising up to the heavens. Listen to GJC’s Kol Zimrah service here!

Friday Night Family Services with Chana Rothman

Musician, songwriter and Jewish educator extraordinaire Chana Rothman leads a monthly creative Family Friday Night service geared toward ages 0-8 with their grownups and siblings, and open to all. We sing, move, and read stories while welcoming Shabbat together with prayers and songs. This service includes acoustic guitar. When possible, we gather for a pizza dinner before the service.

Friday Night Musical Service Series

Throughout the year, guest musicians join us to bring in Shabbat, weaving together liturgy, new melodies alongside more familiar settings, and contemplative space. Guest musicians include Batya Levine, Rena Branson, Binny Kagedan with Yehi Ohr, Solomon Hoffman with the RRC Music Collective, and others. Don’t miss these soulful services, which always draw a crowd!

Kabbalat Shabbat at GJC

This spirited service (currently offered in person and on live stream) is led by GJC rabbinic staff who lead us in singing the psalms of Kabbalat Shabbat. The spirit of the singing along with the warmth of the community make this a wonderful way to make the transition from the workweek to Shabbat. The Rabbi offers a short teaching before we move on to the Ma’ariv (evening) service, which we again sing and chant together.