Welcome to Congregation Anshai Torah
Welcome to Congregation Anshai Torah, located in the heart of Plano, Texas! We’re so glad you’re here. Whether you’re new to our community or a longtime member, we want you to feel at home. Our vibrant congregation is built on meaningful traditions, uplifting services, and the warmth of connection.
This guide is here to help you navigate the rituals, prayers, and traditions you’ll encounter at Anshai Torah. If you haven’t met one of our Rabbis please introduce yourself, they would love to meet you.
Shabbat Services
Friday Night Kabbalat Shabbat - 6:30pm
Shabbat morning -9:30am followed by a Kiddush luncheon
Sanctuary
At the heart of our sanctuary is the aron kodesh, the holy ark, where our Torah scrolls are lovingly housed. Each Torah scroll contains the Five Books of Moses and is adorned with crowns and coverings to reflect our deep reverence for these sacred texts.
Every Shabbat, a portion of the Torah is read, bringing its timeless teachings to life. On Jewish festivals, we read special sections of the Torah that celebrate the beauty of our traditions.
Prayer Books
Two books are used during our services. Please grab a siddur, prayer book when you enter the sanctuary. The Chumash containing the Torah reading is in the seat backs.
The Siddur is used for Shabbat prayers and contains Hebrew text and transliteration, English translations, and beautiful Psalms.
The Chumash includes the Five Books of Moses with translations and commentary, perfect for following along with the Torah reading.
Shabbat Prayers and Teachings
Shema
This powerful prayer, declaring “Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One,” is a cornerstone of Jewish faith and is recited during the service and as the Torah is removed from the ark.
Amidah
The Amidah prayer offers a time for silent reflection, where each person can connect with God in Hebrew, English, or in their own words.
Rabbinic Teachings
Each Shabbat, our Rabbis share meaningful insights that connect the wisdom of Torah to modern life. These teachings aim to inspire reflection and action as we move through our week.
Jewish Holidays
Rosh Hashanah
Celebrate the Jewish New Year with traditions that symbolize renewal and sweetness, like dipping apples in honey.
Yom Kippur
The holiest day of the year is a time for fasting, prayer, and seeking personal and communal renewal.
Sukkot
Families gather in sukkot, outdoor shelters, to remember the Israelites journey through the desert. The lulav and etrog symbolize unity and gratitude.
Simchat Torah
Dance and sing as we celebrate the completion of the Torah reading cycle and the joy of beginning anew.
Hanukkah
Celebrate the festival of lights with latkes, sufganiyot(jelly donuts), and singing.
Passover
Retell the story of the Exodus through symbolic foods, songs, and prayers at the family seder table.
Shavuot
Celebrate the giving of the Torah with dairy treats and the reading of the Book of Ruth, a story of kindness and faith.
We hope you will join us for any Shabbat and holiday service.