Ever since becoming B’nai Moshe usher chair some 15 plus years ago, I have been interested in welcoming people to our synagogue. Even when not “on duty” as an usher, I’ve enjoyed meeting visitors (or even members with whom I am not familiar). In fact, that’s one of the things I will miss now that I am on the bimah each Shabbat.

You never know whom you’ll meet. It could be a former neighbor; a classmate from years ago; a friend of your parents; someone new to town; or a person living on your street. And it’s real easy to strike up a conversation. After all, you’re both Jews and you’re both in synagogue.

My interest in meeting visitors stems back to when I moved to Johnstown, PA for my first job. I visited both local congregations, and as a complete stranger in town, was impressed by the welcomes.

More recently, I have taken to synagogue tourism – both locally and when out of town on business or vacation. I’ll go to Shabbat morning services at a conservative synagogue and begin taking mental notes as I walk in. Did I get more than a perfunctory “Shabbat Shalom” from the greeter? How many people appeared to notice me? Did anyone smile or strike up a conversation? Was I offered an honor? Was I asked to stay for kiddush?

I’m sorry and sad to say that on several occasions I sat in my seat, seemingly invisible for three hours. While everyone walked by me into kiddush, I would just leave, wondering why would anyone want to be a member at that place.

At the other end of the scale, I found a few congregations to be very friendly and I could see why people belonged there. Most synagogues were somewhere in the middle, though – not bad, but not real good, either.

It’s my hope that B’nai Moshe excels in welcoming visitors. We have top-notch greeters (led by Jerry Friedman), ushers (led by Herb Cohen), and ritual committee floor captains (Marc, Michele, Larry, Steve, and Mark – I hope I didn’t leave any out) who interact with visitors on their way in and give them bimah honors when possible.

But please - don’t leave it to the “professionals.” I would like everyone in the sanctuary to be a greeter. There is no reason a visitor should sit self-consciously alone. Give it a try. Next time you pass by or sit near an unfamiliar face, stop, lean over, or turn around and say, “Shabbat Shalom! Welcome to B’nai Moshe!” Like I said, you never know whom you’ll meet.