Welcome!
Are you New Here?
At Congregation Brith Hadoshah , we remain loyal to Jewish heritage and true to New Covenant faith. Rabbi Frank Lowinger has a special welcome message for you!
WELCOME! Please fill out our visitor card. We want to get to know you!
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Our address is 50 Alberta Drive in Amherst, located just south of the NorthTown Plaza and Sheridan Drive, between Niagara Falls Boulevard and Baily Avenue.
A Messianic Jewish synagogue is generally comprised of Jewish people who have found the Messiah promised to our people. From a careful examination of our ancient texts, we believe that Yeshua (Jesus) is the One spoken of by Moses and the prophets.
Messianic Jewish congregations are distinct from the traditional synagogue in that the congregation acknowledges Yeshua of Nazareth as the Messiah of the Jewish people and the Savior of mankind. Messianic Jewish Congregations are also distinct from the Church in that they are intended to enable and encourage Jewish followers of Yeshua to remain true to their Jewish heritage. Historically, as our forebears in the first century, we do not jettison our Jewishness.
We meet on Shabbat and are observant of the Jewish holy days ordained by God in the Torah (Books of Moses). We take great delight in our heritage as we live out the life cycle observances that are so central to community life.
We are joined together with many non-Jewish people who share a love for the Messiah to go along with a love for Israel and the Jewish people. So many Gentiles just feel “at home” and as part of the Messianic Jewish community.
Service starts at 10:30 every Shabbat (Saturday) morning following our Shabbat class.
We have several vetted volunteers that rotate hosting our children’s classes. Children from 6 to 12 are welcome to participate in our Shabbat Class, while there is a supervised nursery for the younger ones. Your children will be in a safe and secure environment so you can relax and enjoy our service.
Our services blend together the old and the new, the zeal of the Orthodox and the relatability of the Reform. We draw richly from traditional ancient Jewish liturgies while enjoying an uplifting and upbeat song service – reminiscent of the Levitical choirs that once served in Temple times. Many contemporary songs, based on the sacred writings are incorporated into our song service.
During our song service, it is common for some to engage in choreographed Israeli dance. In the manner of our prophets and poets, the lifting of one’s hands to Adonai – a spontaneous expression of joy and sincerity or kavanah is part of our worship experience.
Following the song service, the Rabbi will bring an inspired Scripture- based message to draw us to a closer walk with God. All told, our services generally 75 minutes in duration.
On the first Shabbat of each month, we conduct a full Torah service as we read from our sacred scroll. All Hebrew usage is accompanied by an English translation.
All are welcome to join us for a celebratory Kiddush in our social hall.
Anything you feel comfortable in, from nice jeans and a shirt to dresses or suits. We do ask that you please dress modestly, no tank tops or mini skirts. In the warmer months we discourage the wearing of pants which end above the knee. We have made kippot (head-coverings) available for the men to wear as a sign of respect for the sanctuary but it is not required.
We also ask that you do not wear any colognes or perfumes. We have congregation members that are highly allergic to these items. They have had to leave services in the past to avoid severe reactions.
You will be greeted by one of our friendly ushers who will be only too glad to assist you in finding the cloakroom, restroom or nursery. Should you have questions or need assistance of any kind, they are there to help.