Synagogue Customs and Etiquette Synagogue Customs and Etiquette A synagogue is a house of God , a place to feel God's presence, worship and join a community in prayer. Behavior in a synagogue should be appropriately respectful. Since the synagogue is considered a house of God, it is usually appropriate to wear nice clothes. On certain occasions that do not involve regular prayer services more casual attire is acceptable. Some synagogues are more informal, but usually women wear dresses and men suits.
Younger children can usually get away with their play clothes.
This is often optional at Refrom services. Out of respect even non-Jewish guests should follow the custom of the synagogue and wear a kippah . Men who have been Bar-Mitzvahed also typically put on a tallis . This is not expected of non-Jews, who may politely decline if offered one. Today, in more liberal synagogues women sometimes also wear a kippah and tallis, but this is not obligatory.