• Approach the ark


• Open doors by pulling them sideways


• Face the ark


• The cantor will chant the first verse, "Barchu et Adonai Hamvorah"


• The congregation chants the second verse "Baruch Adonai Hamvorah L'Olam Vaed."
  Bow at "Baruch Adonai" and stand back up at "L'Olam Vaed"


• The cantor will repeat the second line, remain facing the ark


• When the cantor finishes, you may turn around and return (read more)

• Approach the bima when your name is called


• If the rabbi/gabbai does not already have your Hebrew name, he/she may ask you for it when you approach the bima.

Before the Torah portion is read

• Touch your Tallis or the Torah belt to the Torah and then touch it to your lips (the person who is leining will point out where to touch the Torah)


• Chant the first line of the blessing for the (read more)

• Unroll scroll to show a few columns


• Hold the two handles of the Torah and gently pull it toward you so that the bottom of the scroll extends slightly off the lectern


• Bend your knees slightly and push downward on the handles. This will lever the Torah upward.


• Raise the Torah and turn around to show it to the congregation (for about ten seconds)


• Carry the Torah to the side seats (the gabbai will direct you), sit down (bring your (read more)