Expert: Ovadiah ben Avraham - 7/8/2006

Question
Hi Rav2B!
I am not of the Jewish faith - in fact I am a Born Again Christian.  I am honored to potentially be working with an Orthedox Jewish Family in my line of work "New Home Sales".  I want to ensure that I understand clearly the rules they abide in order to honor their Faith.

So far I have 3 pertinent questions:

1) What are the rules for attending Sabbath Services regarding transportation.   I understand that they are not permitted to drive. Is riding allowed in a car not driven by an Orthedox Jew?  Is riding in a Horse drawn buggy w/ a Non-Orthedox driver allowed?  Is walking & or bicycle riding allowed?  Thank you!

Answer
I applaud your desire to learn the customs and beliefs of the Jewish People. We are all blessed and enriched by the presence of true Torah-keepers.

An Orthodox Jew will not avail themselves to any of the forms of transportation you have mentioned, so you should make sure potential homes are within walking distance of an Orthodox Synagogue. If they are new to the area, I would also get the family a list of all Orthodox Synagogues in the city so they can speak with the Rabbis and other members, similar to how you might choose a church-home, given several options. If they already belong to a Synagogue that will likewise limit your search area for them.

Hope this helps!