As soon as you walk in the door, there will be a container of yarmulka's (those skull caps you see Jews wearing.) Unless it is a reformed synagogue, you should put one on. If you are squeamish about shared headgear, go out and buy a hat tonight.
It is considered respectfull to cover your head in the synagogue, especially in the sanctuary.
There may be tallissim to wear (prayer shawls) don't put one of those on as you aren't Jewish.
Don't enter the sanctuary when people are standing. It is considered very rude to interrupt people during the prayers that are said standing.
With one exception we never bow during the service. Stand when everyone else does. You will not be expected to bow during the Kedusha, and you won't be expected to stand during the Mourners Kaddish.
Since it is a Bar Mitzvah, not a regular service, you should refrain from asking the rabbi questions about the Torah portion or his sermon. If you go to a synagogue another time, feel free.
I'll be available next week when you have more questions. :-)
Have fun!
One last thing: if you are giving a gift of money to the young man (which will be socked away for college) it is traditional to give in multiples of 18. Then number 18 is the numerological equivalent to the Hebrew word for "life." |
