Torah Reading - Torah Services

Torah Reading - Torah Services: Torah reading service begins when a member of the congregation is given the honor of opening the Ark and taking out the Torah, with much respect and ceremony. The Torah is then taken to the podium (Bimah), which is situated in the center of the sanctuary. On the occasion when it is necessary to read two or three different portions, two or three scrolls may be taken from the Ark. One or two additional members of the congregation are then honored with carrying the additional Torah Scrolls to the podium.

As the Torah Scroll passes by, members of the congregation kiss it as a sign of love and respect.