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Welcome to our synagogue!
Magen David Sephardic Congregation (MDSC) is a Modern Orthodox synagogue founded in 1966. Our building is ideally located to serve worshippers from Bethesda, Rockville, and Potomac (Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC).
Our distinctive Sephardic character is a source of pride for us, but membership in MDSC is not exclusive. Visitors may hear not only “Welcome” but “Bienvenue” and “Bienvenidos” – and from our many Israeli members, a hearty “Shalom”. In this diverse and vibrant environment, a biseleh Yiddish is not out of place.
A more welcoming, caring congregation you won’t find. We think our energy and devotion will inspire you to share in our prayer services and learning sessions.
We invite people of all levels of Jewish knowledge and awareness to explore their personal growth here, supported by others in this warm, outgoing community. Magen David is the go-to gathering place for Jews of all ages, backgrounds, and perceptions.
We hope you will explore this website to learn about the life of our community and the breadth of our mission. If you're not already on our mailing list, it’s easy to sign up. Just send a request to our executive director, Andrea Choobineh, at office@magendavidsephardic.org.
Parashat HaShavua Shavuot Exodus 19:1 - 20:23 Deuteronomy 14:22 -16:20
The people's encampment is opposite Mount Sinai, where they are told HaShem has chosen them to be a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. They respond, “All that HaShem has spoken, we shall do.”
On the sixth say of the month of Sivan, seven weeks after the Exodus from Egypt, all the nation of Israel assembles at the foot of Mount Sinai. Descending onto the mountain amidst thunder, lightning, billows of smoke, and the blast of the shofar, HaShem summons Moshe to ascend.
HaShem proclaims the Ten Commandments. Forbidden are worship of idols, taking God’s name in vain, committing adultery or murder, bearing false witness, coveting another’s property, and theft. The people are also commanded to honor their parents and to keep the Shabbat. They cry out to Moshe, complaining that these laws are too intense for them. They beg him to receive the Torah on their behalf and convey it to them.
The laws of the three pilgrim festivals -- Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot – are detailed. On these occasions, all the people come to see and be seen before the face of HaShem in the Holy Temple.
Bulgarian Night
With over 250 attendees, MDSC's Bulgarian Night was a rousing success! Below are a few of the beautiful photos from the event. Thank you to everyone who helped organize, participate in and attend this wonderful cultural celebration.
