Worship

"To pray is to take notice of the wonder, to regain a sense of the mystery that animates all beings. Prayer is our humble answer to the inconceivable surprise of living. It is all we can offer in return for the mystery by which we live. It is gratefulness that makes the soul great."  
— Abraham Joshua Heschel, God in Search of Man

VBS is a dynamic prayer community where you can enliven your soul and connect with others through daily prayers, Shabbat services, holiday celebrations, and life cycle events.  Explore the different prayer opportunities in this section and click on the calendar link to find the right time and place for your worship needs.

Daily Minyan

Our active minyan means no one prays alone. Every morning and evening, people show up — for each other. We celebrate, comfort, and connect through shared ritual. This daily commitment weaves the strongest bonds of all: belonging, presence, and care. Join the rhythm of our community. Learn more here >

Erev Shabbat: Friday Evening

Take part in our many offerings onsite and online to welcome Shabbat on Friday evenings:

• Weekly Torah Study with Rabbi Ed Feinstein: Offered online so it can be accessible to all, Rabbi Feinstein dissects, illuminates, and animates the weekly parsha.
• Shiru Shabbat: Moving music, palpable energy, and performances from our VBS Youth Choir. These uplifting "singing" services led by Cantor Rafii include optional community dinners. Check our calendar for the next upcoming date.

Shabbat: Saturday

• Weekly Shabbat Morning Services: Together, we celebrate as a community for B'nai Mitzvah ceremonies, baby namings, and aufrufs. Come to fill your soul with prayer, music, and Torah. Our VBS clergy offers reflective and meaningful Shabbat morning services every Saturday morning. Learn more here >
• B'Yachad (Junior Congregation): Together families will learn about the service, lead prayers, and join with the community for Kiddush lunch. Suggested for children in grades K-6 and their families – all families welcome!
• Tot Shabbat: Join hundreds of young families for a lively Shabbat service for our littlest congregants. Children play, pray and make music together with the Shababa band, followed by connections and light lunch. RSVP is required. Learn more here >
• Haverim Minyan: Haverim means "friends" in Hebrew. Enjoy this monthly casual community traditional Shabbat minyan with friends.
• N'Shama Minyan: Celebrating Shabbat through music, meditation and song. This creative service led by Rabbi Nina Feinstein offers a warm and joyful spiritual experience. Learn more here >

Shabbat Learning

• Talking Torah with Rabbi Nolan Lebovitz: VBS's senior rabbi leads this invigorating and thoughtful Torah study. 
• VBS Discovery Circle: An expedition of discovery to reveal these treasures of Jewish spirit and wisdom.
• Shabbat Shiur: Linger at VBS after Shabbat morning services to enjoy your Kiddush luncheon with a Shabbat lesson hosted by a visiting speaker.

Shabbat Mincha/Ma'ariv