Two separate initiatives yesterday helped some 200,000 Jews who might never have set foot in a synagogue - even on Yom Kippur - get a taste of what the prayers are all about. The first was organized by Deputy Foreign Minister and Norwegian Chief Rabbi Michael Melchior, who helped sponsor 110 "secular minyanim" [prayer quorums] throughout Israel. Each of them featured a chazan [prayer leader], an instructor, and a minyan director, as well as some observant Jews to give "life" to the service. The instructors were specially trained to explain the prayers as well as answer questions.
Another initiative of a similar nature was organized by the Tzohar rabbis' group. In Kibbutz Mitzpeh Shalem, for instance - on the Dead Sea shore, north of Ein Gedi - the surprisingly high percentage of one-third of the residents showed up for the special services. Participants expressed great enthusiasm at the venture, and some said they hoped this was just the beginning of more.
Another initiative of a similar nature was organized by the Tzohar rabbis' group. In Kibbutz Mitzpeh Shalem, for instance - on the Dead Sea shore, north of Ein Gedi - the surprisingly high percentage of one-third of the residents showed up for the special services. Participants expressed great enthusiasm at the venture, and some said they hoped this was just the beginning of more.