7A Ezra & the Synagogue PP Revised

This PowerPoint supplements People in the Presence of God. Updated Oct 21. 2013.

Ezra convenes scripture-reading event: reads 4 hours, praises 4 hours. Origin of synagogue unclear (perhaps Babylon). Synagogue worship: scroll ceremony, public-lectionary-scripture-reading, shema (creed-like), 18 benediction prayer, homily (short sermon).  Any qualified person could teach/preach.  Comparison of Synagogue to Protestant/Catholic service.  Importance of the Synagogue for Protestants. Creative ideas on public reading of  scripture. Hymn for paraphrasing the Apostle’s Creed