Today is 40 days, which is 5 weeks and 5 days of the Omer
Instructions for counting the omer are found on our Omer Overview Page. You can find the specific blessing for today at chabad.org.
We’re dedicating new Siddurim on the first day of Shavuot. In honor of this wonderful occasion, we’re using the counting of the Omer to learn about the siddur.
Enjoy today’s siddur related question and answer, which was provided by Sharon Beth B..
What is your favorite prayer and why?
My favorite prayer is “A prayer for those who serve the community,” although in the Silverman Siddur it was “A prayer for the congregation.” It is my favorite because it includes so many people–if you are reciting this prayer you are specifically included! Or if you’re not, but are related to someone who is a member of a congregation, any congregation, this prayer is on your behalf. But, more than that, it reminds me that synagogues don’t exist in a vacuum. They need people to “enter them to pray, give funds for heat and light, and wine for Kiddush and Havdalah,” (Siddur Sim Shalom, p. 148) or if not specifically enumerating paying for heat and light “provid[ing] for their maintenance” (Siddur Lev Shalem, p. 176).
This is why I become a member of a synagogue, because if I want a synagogue when I need one, I need to support its existence whether I’m there or not.