Beit HaLev
Rabbi-Cantor Galit-Shirah conducts online services for Friday night and Saturday morning Shabbat services. The Friday, Feb. 3, service will begin at 5 p.m. and the Saturday, Feb. 4, service will begin at 10 a.m. Note that the Friday evening service begins earlier than last year, at 5 p.m.
Beit HaLev LIVE! Interactive livestream services are on Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9152434704?pwd=THJGTE1OUXI5 VXFDTWtuZHF4K3VxUT09. The meeting ID is 915 243 4704, and the passcode is RavGalit. People can also view on Facebook at www.facebook.com/galityomtov or YouTube at www.youtube. com/beithalev8816.
“Beshalach,” (When Pharaoh let the people go) from Exodus 13:17-15:26, describes how HaShem leads the Israelites out of Egypt, manifested as a pillar of cloud during the day and a pillar of fire during the night. They are led on a circuitous route through the wilderness to the Sea of Reeds. They are armed, laden with the riches given to them by the Egyptians and carrying Joseph’s bones to be buried in the Promised Land. HaShem once again stiffens Pharaoh’s heart and the ruler sends his army to pursue the fleeing slaves. The Israelites, now between the pursuing Egyptians and the sea, bewail to Moses that they have been brought to the wilderness to die. HaShem tells Moses to hold out his staff over the water and split the sea so that the people can cross on dry land.
All Beit HaLev services use the special prayerbooks, “Lev L’Lev,” which include excerpts from the Reform Siddur, “Mishkan HaT’filah.” Beit HaLev and Rabbi Galit-Shirah are a part of the Union of Jewish Universalist Clergy and Communities. It is progressive in thought and traditional in liturgy. The services are joyous, meaningful and musical. Beit HaLev welcomes everyone who seeks a path to the Divine and doesn’t believe in labels. It considers all religions holy and valid. To request a membership form for Beit Ha-Lev, call Rabbi Galit-Shirah at 562-715-0888 or email duets@icloud.com. Contributions to Beit HaLev are welcome and may be sent to Beit HaLev, P.O. Box 2279, Seal Beach, CA 90740.
