We love visitors at Lev Tzion! Lev Tzion is a pretty friendly congregation. Don't worry that you might not know the right thing to do or say. Many of us at Lev Tzion are new to Messianic Judaism. Others are happy to provide answers to your questions.
When should I visit?
We meet to celebrate the Sabbath together every Saturday morning at 10:30 AM. Many people opt to show up around 10:15 AM. Another option is to come for a special event such as one of the Jewish Holidays. These are fun and meaningful times.
How do I get there?
We meet for Shabbat services on Saturday mornings at 10:30. We are located on the West side of El Paso at 4529 Osborne Suite D, off of Doniphan. See link to Google maps below.
What should I expect on Sabbaths and Holidays?
Lev Tzion is a synagogue, not a "Church" so you may encounter some things that are unfamiliar at our Sabbath services. Don't let that deter you—be adventurous! Here are some things that you might experience if you visit our Sabbath service:
- Liturgical Prayer (given by God to the Jews: Romans 9:4)
- Some of our prayers are in Hebrew and others are in English.
- Prayers are recited from slides projected to the front, so don't sit too far away.
- Sometimes music and worship is interspersed within the "liturgy" .
- Sometimes a portion of the Scripture is recited from our Torah scroll.
- After the teaching and worship music we do "kiddush" with bread and wine. There are prayers for both.
- Traditional apparel:
- Men wear a skullcap called a yarmulke or kippah.
- Men (and sometimes women) also wear a prayer shawl called a tallit.
What should I wear?
On Saturdays, it is customary and appropriate to dress up as nicely as we can in honor of the Sabbath. Button-up shirts are a good idea for men; a suit always looks nice. We place a high value on modest dress. Clothing should be gender-appropriate. Shorts are discouraged. Necklines should not be low-cut. Everything private should be covered. All men are encouraged to wear a kippah (skullcap) when in the sanctuary. If you do not have your own, we would be happy to loan you one. Jewish men are encouraged to wear a tallit (prayer shawl) during the morning service, which we can also provide.
What should I bring?
If you have a favorite Bible or Siddur, feel free to bring it, though most of the Scriptures are displayed on the slides during the teaching. Just bring a mind and attitude that's excited to learn and experience new things! Please do not distract yourself and others on electronic devices during the service -- it is God's Day; a Picture of the Kingdom, and a time for you to come to know Him better.
