Candle Lighting & Torah Reading Instructions

Candle Lighting

The Candle Lighting is reserved for female members of CBHM

Prayer can be recited in Hebrew or English.  If recited in Hebrew, the English should be repeated.

Hair should be covered, this is out of respect for Adonai, as observed in scripture where women prophesying or praying should cover their hair.

Use care lighting the candles, once both are lit, the match should be blown out to reduce risk of damage to the facilities.

Hands are rotated in a circular pattern, ending in front of the eyes.  A paper copy of the prayer maybe placed on the table to help the Candle Lighter in remembering the prayer.

Say, or chant the prayer, remember to translate if done in Hebrew.

The Torah reading can be performed by either male or female members of CBHM

Readings should come from the Torah portion for the week (see Torah Readings).  There are 3 parts of the reading, Torah, Haftorah, and B'rit Hadasha

Select 1-3 verses for the Torah, Haftorah, and B'rit Chadasha to read outloud.

If the Torah reader is female, their hair should be covered, this is out of respect for Adonai, as observed in scripture where women prophesying or praying should cover their hair.

The Worship Leader will recite "When the Ark would Travel" as the Ark is opened.  After the Torah Blessing, read the selected Torah verse(s).

The Worship Leader will recite the Haftorah Blessing, read the selected Haftorah verse(s).

The Worship Leader will then recite the B'rit Chadasha Blessing, read the selected B'rit Chadasha verse(s).

A short dissertation of the meaning of the verses may be made.  This dissertation should last no more than 3-4 minutes.

The Worship Leader will recite the The Tree of Life (AYTZ CHAYEEM) and when the Ark rested, the Ark will then be closed.

The reader may then return to their seat.

On the first Shabbat of the month, the Torah will be walked around the congregation (Torah Walk).  This is done in a figure eight pattern.  See Cameron for detailed instructions.