The term shaliach tzibbur literally means "an agent of the community", and it is the term we use for a prayer leader. In large synagogues it is common for a rabbi or cantor to lead the services these days, but traditionally different members of the community might lead services every week. In smaller communities that can't afford a rabbi, leading services may feel daunting. This class will help prepare you to confidently lead services.
We meet for ten 90 minute sessions over Zoom. In addition, there is a selection of video lectures and audio resources which you can access at your own pace, and a prayer leaders' booklet that I have created as a "Quick Start Guide" for lay leaders.
This pluralistic class is suitable for members of any stream of Judaism. While the course flavor changes with each cohort due to the makeup of the students, all cohorts will include discussion about halachic rules of prayer along with varying approaches taken in different communities.
During the class we will cover the basic shape of a synagogue service, and study each of the sections together. We will talk about the differences between traditional and progressive services, how to create different experiences in a service, and how to choose which style of service will work best in your community or in a given situation. We'll talk about the importance of music, discuss nusach (traditional melody systems) and modern tunes, and the use of instruments during service. We'll discuss the difference between keva (the set prayers) and kavvana (the intentions we imbue into the prayers), and how to create divrei tefilah (explanations of the prayers) that can help your community deepen their spiritual experience during services. We will also look at how to officiate various lifecycle events.
Cost: $200
You will be asked to meet with Elior before completing payment for your class. You can schedule a meeting here.
New Zealand Cohort:
Tuesdays starting 6 October 2026 at 6pm New Zealand time
Sign up
North American Cohort:
Sundays starting October 18
See form for class dates.
Sign up