High Holidays

Neon colorblocked background with honey dippers and apples and a shofar

Digital Resources for a Sweet New Year

Crystal Hill
Before we know it, Rosh HaShanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot will be upon us, signaling the beginning of the new year and the start of planning for upcoming programs. Here are a few resources to help you reflect and create meaningful experiences for your congregation as you celebrate the High Holidays and move into the New Year.
A photo of two men and a woman looking down at a Torah scroll

From Simchat Torah to Sichat Torah

Rabbi Yael Vurgan
There is no need to explain why there will be no joy on Simchat Torah this year in the western Negev. The looming first anniversary of the massacre is causing anger, frustration, and despair to flood back. As long as hostages are still held in Gaza, residents of the region are still stuck on October 7.
A child blowing a shofar

Creating High Holiday Memories for Children

Lisa Samick
Finding ways to make the High Holidays meaningful for your child is an important way to nurture their Jewish identity. There are many ways to celebrate at home, like reading books, making crafts, or discussing what the holiday means to you and them.
Unlit white memory candle in a glass votive against a black backdrop

You’re Invited to Remember

Rabbi Lisa S. Greene
Growing up, I saw Yizkor as a mysterious event on Yom Kippur afternoon. The grownups would return to temple in the afternoon, while my sister and I stayed home. There was no explanation, just an understanding that this was a thing our parents and grandparents did, and we did not.
an image of a prayer book opened, two shofars and a tallit on a white wooden surface

Judgment Days

Kerry Leaf
Some label Rosh HaShanah and the period between the New Year and Yom Kippur as "Judgment Days," a time during which the trajectory of our lives for the coming year is reached.