Comprehensive Guide to the Torah Service Now Available
The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ), in conjunction with the Rabbinical Assembly (RA), has published "Yad LaTorah: Laws and Customs of the Torah Service - A Guide for Gabba’im and Torah Readers." Compiled by Kenneth S. Goldrich, it is the first authoritative English-languageguide on the laws and customs of the Torah service. According to the author, "Of all the holy vessels in a synagogue, the two holiest, in order, are the people and the Torah Scrolls. The Torah Service is the most immediate and palpable interaction between them. The laws and customs which guide this interaction are the focus of Yad LaTorah."
Mr. Goldrich went on to note: "Given the detailed and myriad laws and customs which govern the Torah Service, I looked for an English language guide and found none. This was my opportunity to prepare Yad LaTorah specifically for the Conservative Movement."
Rabbi Jerome Epstein, USCJ Executive Vice-President, points out that "Mr. Goldrich has made significant contributions to USCJ publications, writing essays for the USCJ Art Engagement Calendar as well as authoring the Conservative Movement "Luah," the popular liturgical calendar containing the order of prayers, blessings and Torah readings, which is published yearly."
USCJ International President Judy Yudof notes that "the Torah Service provides numerous opportunities for meaningful lay participation. However, sometimes individuals are reluctant because of a lack of familiarity or comfort with the requisite skills and protocols. Yad Latorah is a valuable resource that will encourage congregants to take the step toward this fulfilling mitzvah as well as support Torah readers and gabba’im in their demanding roles."
Yad LaTorah is available for $28 plus $5 shipping. To order, contact the United Synagogue Book Service: call 800-594-5617, fax 212-253-5422, or e-mail booksvc@uscj.org. For further information about this resource, contact Rabbi Robert Abramson, Director of Education, 212-533-7800, ext. 2500, or e-mail education@uscj.org.
