RULES OF THE SYNAGOGUE

1. Some people think that when it comes to fashion, anything goes at shul.  Not true!  Jeans and sneakers, low-cut dresses, exposed mid-riffs, bare backs and shoulders are fashion failings for the smart synagogue-goer.  Tzeniut or modesty is a mitzvah.  Dignity in clothing is a must.

2. All males must wear a kippah whenever in the synagogue, a reminder of our humility before God and an outward expression of our Jewish identity.

3. For the same reason, all women, single and married, are strongly encouraged to wear a head covering during services—whether a kippah, hat, or doily—and are required to do so if called onto the bimah. 

4. All Jewish males must wear a tallit at morning services.  All Jewish women of Bat Mitzvah age and above are encouraged to do the same, as members of the community equally responsible for the mitzvot and worthy of being wrapped in God’s embrace.

5. It is inappropriate to bring gifts into the synagogue. 

6. Cell phones should not be brought to the synagogue.  In case of an emergency, an usher will make phone service available.

7. There is no photography, whether still or video, within the synagogue or on the synagogue grounds over Shabbat. It is suggested that photographs within the Sanctuary and building be taken during the week.  The synagogue office will be pleased to permit access to the Sanctuary to the family and photographers. 

8. Services begin at 9:00 AM.  Ushers will seat latecomers at appropriate times during the service.

9. There is no smoking within the synagogue or on the synagogue grounds over Shabbat.  In fact, Midway Jewish Center is a smoke-free facility seven days a week.

10. All obligations to the synagogue which include dues, tuition, building fund, Bar and Bat Mitzvah fees and all indebtedness must be paid at least 60 days before the event.

11. The tossing of kosher, wrapped, soft sweets at the Bar and Bat Mitzvah at the conclusion of the Torah reading is customary.  These "sweets" may be purchased through our synagogue’s Sisterhood.

12. We expect the young guests of the Bar and Bat Mitzvah to remain within the sanctuary throughout the service.  A break for the restroom is fine, but wandering the halls or remaining outside the building is not permitted.

13. Young guests of the Bar and Bat Mitzvah shall be seated in the first three rows in front of the cantor’s lectern.

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