10. Shabbat Morning Honours

We look forward to seeing your child shine as they take to the Bimah and embrace what it means to be an adult in the Jewish community.

As part of the service there are opportunities for other loved ones to participate as well. 

Below is a list of honours opportunities on Shabbat morning for your family and friends. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Cantor, Rabbi, Gabbai’im, or Honours Coordinator. A complete contact information list appears in item #14, below.

Honours with asterisks are available to non-Jewish family and friends.

Primary Shabbat Morning Honours

Ark Opening #1 during Torah Processional (Up to 4 people)

Ark Opening #2 during Torah Recessional (Up to 4 people)

Torah Holders (1 person — sometimes 2, depending on the number of scrolls being read)

Aliyot/Torah Blessings (3 plus your child)

3 out of 5 of the following honours

Hagbahah (lifting the Torah)—because some scrolls are heavy, please consult with the Honours Coordinator before assigning this honour

Gelilah (tying the Torah)

Prayer for the Congregation (English reading)

Prayer for Canada (English reading)*

Prayer for Peace (responsive English reading)*

Additional honours

Al N’tilat Yadayim and Hamotzi (blessings on hand-washing and Challah)

Gabbai’s Assistant (helping the Gabbai locate honourees during the service)*

“Skilled” Honours

There are a few parts of the service that require skill and preparation. All of these parts may be assigned, but the synagogue must be informed at least three months in advance. We may also ask for the opportunity to review these parts with those to whom they are assigned. 

These parts include:

  • Any Torah readings not being read by the B’nei Mitzvah
  • Leading of services (P’sukei D’zimra, Shacharit, Musaf, etc.)

Children’s Honours

These are parts designated for children, generally under the age of B’nei Mitzvah. They need not be assigned but you are welcome to assign them if you wish.

  • Candy Distributors*
  • Ein Keloheinu
  • Aleinu
  • Adon Olam

*Available to non-Jews.