Synagogue to rock to music of Fab 4

Beatles music and Jewish prayers merge in St. Augustine this weekend at the historic First Congregation Sons of Israel at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 30.

The music of the Beatles, which is loved by so many people from generations young and old, is finding a new home in synagogues across the country. Beatles Shabbat, setting Hebrew prayers to the music of the Fab Four has become a huge hit in recent years.

Leading this special service will be Rabbi Joel Fox, a talented rabbi and cantor who has led both traditional and contemporary services for the past two decades. Rabbi Fox attended the Israel Institute of Cantorial Art, served in the Israel Defense Force as a member of their acclaimed Rabbinical Army Choir, and performed with the Great Synagogue of Jerusalem.

Throughout his career, he has traveled and given concerts across the globe as an accomplished pianist and singer, and his repertoire includes traditional and contemporary music in English, Hebrew, Yiddish and Ladino. Today, Rabbi Fox serves as both a rabbi and cantor in the capacity of both teacher and entertainer.

“My goal is to make the prayer experience more recognizable, enjoyable and accessible to more people,” Rabbi Joel Fox said. “and Beatles Shabbat is a perfect way to do just that. For the first time in its nearly 110 year history, this congregation will be singing psalms to tunes of Imagine and Twist and Shout.”

First Congregation Sons of Israel is hosting its first ever Beatles Shabbat. “Groovy-wear optional.” First Congregation Sons of Israel is located at 161 Cordova St.

Also upcoming:

Synagogue 101 A Learner’s Service

Synagogue Survival Skills

Saturday, July 1 at 10 a.m.

Have you felt confused or lost in a synagogue service? Come make yourself at home with the beautiful and inspiring liturgy of the Jewish tradition. Join under the leadership of Visiting Rabbi Joel Fox as we unravel and explain the structure, choreography, and meaning of the Shabbat morning prayer service.