A virtual minyan, or a prayer gathering conducted through an online platform, offers many benefits to those who wish to participate in communal worship. In this essay, we will explore some of the key benefits of a virtual minyan and why it may be a beneficial option for individuals seeking to connect with their faith community.

1. Accessibility: A virtual minyan allows individuals who may not have access to a physical minyan due to geographical or physical barriers to participate in communal prayer. Whether someone is homebound, living in a remote area, or traveling, a virtual minyan enables them to connect with their faith community and participate in communal worship. This level of accessibility is especially important for individuals with mobility issues or those who are unable to travel to a physical minyan.

2. Inclusivity: Virtual minyanim promote inclusivity by providing a more welcoming environment for individuals who may not feel comfortable in traditional minyanim due to factors such as gender, sexual orientation, or religious practice. Virtual minyanim allow for more open communication and interaction, and can foster a sense of community and belonging for all participants.

3. Flexibility: Virtual minyanim can be held at different times and locations to accommodate the schedules of participants. This level of flexibility makes it easier for individuals to participate in communal prayer, as they can choose a time that works best for them. This can encourage more individuals to participate in prayer and can help build a stronger sense of community among participants.

4. Innovation: A virtual minyan provides an opportunity for innovative approaches to prayer and worship. By using technology, virtual minyanim can create a more engaging and interactive worship experience, using multimedia elements such as virtual backgrounds, music, and interactive features. This can enhance the spiritual experience of participants and provide a fresh perspective on traditional prayer practices.

5. Resilience: Virtual minyanim offer a means of maintaining a sense of community and continuity during times of crisis or uncertainty, such as during a pandemic, when physical gatherings may not be possible. Virtual minyanim enable individuals to maintain their connection to their faith community and engage in communal worship even during challenging times, providing comfort and support for participants.

In conclusion, a virtual minyan offers many benefits to individuals seeking to connect with their faith community and participate in communal worship. From accessibility to inclusivity, flexibility, innovation, and resilience, a virtual minyan provides a meaningful and enriching experience for participants. Whether you are unable to attend a physical minyan or are seeking a more inclusive and engaging worship experience, a virtual minyan may be the perfect solution for you.

Sephardic Jewry is inclusive in its approach to Jewish life, recognizing and embracing the diversity of the Jewish people. Sephardic Jews have a long history of living in and interacting with different cultures and communities, and this has influenced their approach to Judaism in a number of ways.

One aspect of Sephardic inclusivity is linguistic. Sephardic Jews have developed a rich tradition of Jewish literature and prayer in a variety of languages, including Hebrew, Ladino, Arabic, and other local languages. This diversity of language reflects the diversity of the Sephardic world and allows for a broader range of people to connect with Jewish texts and traditions.

Another aspect of Sephardic inclusivity is cultural. Sephardic Jews have a unique blend of Jewish and non-Jewish cultural traditions that are integrated into their practice of Judaism. These traditions include music, food, and art, which are often shared and enjoyed by both Sephardic and non-Sephardic Jews.

Sephardic inclusivity also extends to the role of women in the community. While Sephardic halakha generally follows traditional gender roles, Sephardic communities have a long history of empowering women to take on leadership roles and play active roles in the community.

Overall, Sephardic inclusivity is about creating a space where everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, feels welcome and valued within the Jewish community. It is about recognizing and embracing the diversity that exists within the Jewish people and using it to create a vibrant and inclusive community.

According to Jewish law and tradition, there are differing opinions on the permissibility of a virtual minyan.

Some rabbis and halakhic authorities argue that a virtual minyan is permissible because the essence of a minyan is the gathering of ten individuals for the purpose of prayer and communal worship, regardless of their physical location. They argue that since virtual minyanim allow for the gathering of ten individuals for prayer and worship, they fulfill the requirement for a minyan.

Other rabbis and halakhic authorities, however, argue that a virtual minyan is not permissible because a minyan requires a physical gathering of ten individuals in the same space. They argue that the use of technology to facilitate a virtual gathering is not sufficient to fulfill the requirements of a minyan.

Read: Virtual Prayers? Yes!

It is important to note that the permissibility of a virtual minyan may vary depending on the circumstances and context in which it is being conducted. Some rabbis may permit a virtual minyan in certain situations, such as during a pandemic when physical gatherings may not be possible, while others may not permit it under any circumstances.

Ultimately, the decision to participate in a virtual minyan should be made in consultation with one’s rabbi or halakhic authority, based on their individual beliefs and interpretations of Jewish law and tradition.

The philosophy of Sephardic Jewry is a rich and diverse set of beliefs, values, and practices that have developed over centuries of Jewish life in the Sephardic world. At its core, Sephardic philosophy emphasizes the integration of Jewish tradition with the broader cultural and intellectual currents of the surrounding society. Sephardic Jews have a deep respect for knowledge and education, and view the pursuit of wisdom and understanding as an essential part of their religious and intellectual heritage.

Sephardic philosophy also places a strong emphasis on communal life and social justice. Sephardic Jews believe in the importance of building strong and vibrant communities, and in working to improve the world around them through acts of kindness, charity, and tikkun olam (repairing the world).

Another important aspect of Sephardic philosophy is the centrality of Sephardic halakha (Jewish law) and the guidance of Sephardic rabbis. Sephardic Jews place great importance on the teachings of their rabbis, who provide guidance and support in all aspects of Jewish life.

Overall, the philosophy of Sephardic Jewry is a dynamic and evolving tradition that is rooted in the wisdom and experience of generations of Sephardic Jews. It combines a deep respect for tradition with a willingness to engage with the wider world, and reflects the values of compassion, justice, and community that are central to the Jewish faith.

Shacharit (morning service) ~30 minutes
Join us via Zoom each weekday morning for Shacharit services. If you have them, bring your tefillin and tallit. You can follow along online or with our siddur. Services begin promptly and take about 30 minutes.

Torah reading – We read the Torah during Shacharit (morning) services, each Monday, Thursday and Rosh Hodesh (the new month). If you’d like to participate or have an Aliyah, please fill out our Prayer Request form.

Arvit (evening service) ~15 minutes
Wind down your weekday and Sunday evenings and join us for Arvit prayer service. Prayers only take 15 minutes. 

Check the calendar for times and links >