Rating: 4/5 — Friday nights are wonderful and full of energy; Saturday mornings are rather lacking.
Friday Night: Services were full of energy and youthful exuberance with a packed congregation of young people and families. Raz presents original melodies for Kabbalat Shabbat in a Carlebach-influenced style. His quiet demeanor is complemented by a beautiful voice facilitating prayer participation.
Saturday Morning: Despite high expectations from Friday, I attended twice and felt disappointed both times. Services are lay-led rather than led by Raz, and the room lacked energy and general enthusiasm for prayer. About 20 men and 10 women attended.
Recommended for Friday nights, especially for young adults seeking community connection.
Location: Near 34 Menahem Ussishkin Street, Sha’arei Hesed, Jerusalem.