This guide provides a list of free options for streaming services online in all U.S. time zones. Because strict holiday observance precludes using electricity and computers on Yom Kippur, not many Orthodox synagogues are listed here.

East Coast (Eastern Daylight Time)

Adas Israel (Conservative)

Adas Israel, located in Washington, D.C., was founded in 1869. It is “socially-conscious, and aspires to celebrate Conservative Judaism at its creative best.” Led by Rabbi Lauren Holtzblatt and Rabbi Aaron Alexander. All High Holiday services will be streamed on their webpage.

B’nai Jeshurun (Unaffliated)

B’nai Jeshurun is a nearly 200-year-old unaffiliated synagogue located in New York City. They bring together a multi-generational community in prayer, music, learning, joyful celebration, and activism. They will be streaming all High Holiday services.

Central Synagogue (Reform)

This 2,600-member congregation is one of the largest synagogues in North America. The synagogue streams its High Holidays services free on its website and on its Facebook page.

Park Avenue Synagogue (Conservative)

This 1,650-family Manhattan congregation’s vision includes practicing “a Judaism filled with love, literacy, reverence, compassion, and joy” and striving “to make our ancient tradition compelling and welcoming to contemporary Jewry and to serve as a light unto our fellow Jews and the nations.” Led by Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove. More High Holiday information and full services schedule here.

Temple Emanu-El (Reform)

Founded in 1845, Emanu-El was New York City’s first Reform congregation. Led by Rabbi Joshua Davidson. Full holiday schedule available here.

Stephen Wise Free Synagogue (Reform)

This century-old Reform synagogue on the Upper West Side of Manhattan is led by Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch. Full holiday schedule available here.

Temple Beth El (Reform)

Temple Beth El of Boca Raton was founded in 1967. They will be livestreaming High Holiday services on their website.

Beth Adam (Humanistic)

Located near Cincinnati, Ohio, Congregation Beth Adam is a humanistic synagogue that streams High Holiday services on their website.

Midwest (Central Daylight Time)

Congregation Temple Israel (Reform)

Congregation Temple Israel in St. Louis, MO, strives to be a holy community through worship that is participatory, joyful, musical, and inter-generational. All High Holiday services will be streamed live on their website and YouTube page. 

Temple Beth-El San Antonio (Reform)

High Holiday services for this historic Texas congregation are broadcast on their website; Shabbat services are also regularly broadcast and archived on the streaming site. Led by Rabbi Mara Nathan, an associate rabbi and a cantor. See the full High Holiday service schedule here.

Mount Zion Temple (Reform)

Mount Temple is located in St. Paul, Minnesota. The High Holiday services will be streamed on their website.

Congregation Bene Shalom (Non-Denominational)

Bene Shalom, in Skokie Illinois, was founded in 1948 by deaf Jews. All services are ASL interpreted. The schedule and Zoom links for High Holiday services can be found on their website.

Shir Chadash (Conservative)

Shir Chadash is a Conservative Congregation serving the Greater New Orleans, Louisiana area. Information for how to join Yom Kippur services via Zoom can be found on their website.

Congregation Shaare Emeth (Reform)

Congregation Shaare Emeth, in St. Louis, seeks to be a compassionate and inclusive community that makes Judaism relevant, meaningful and joyful. They are streaming Yom Kippur services on their website.

West Coast (Pacific Daylight Time)

Ikar (Unaffiliated)

This Los Angeles community led by Rabbi Sharon Brous aims “to reanimate Jewish life, to reengage text and tradition not only so that we find personal meaning and connection, but also to help us decipher what it means to be a human being in the world today.”

Congregation Beth Israel (Reform)

An historic center of Jewish life in San Diego, Congregation Beth Israel offers “a warm welcome and a nurturing home to all who seek a meaningful and enduring connection to Judaism.” Services led by Rabbi Jason Nevarez, Rabbi Cantor Arlene Bernstein, and Rabbi Jeremy Gimbel. They will be streaming services on their YouTube channel.

Congregation Shir Hadash (Reform)

Located in Los Gatos, California, Shir Hadash describes itself as “an evolving, vibrant, growing Reform Jewish congregation dedicated to providing a sense of community for its members as well as opportunities for spiritual growth and developing a strong Jewish identity.” It is led by Rabbi PJ Schwartz and Cantor Devorah Felder-Levy.

Or Hamidbar (Unaffiliated)

Or Hamidbar, located in the California desert, is led by Rabbi David Lazar. High Holiday services will be streamed via Facebook Live.

Stephen Wise Temple (Reform)

Located in Los Angeles, CA, Stephen Wise Temple is a community that “makes meaning, and changes the world.” They will be streaming all of their High Holiday services via Zoom, Facebook and YouTube.

Keeping it Sacred (Unaffiliated)

Keeping it Sacred is a center for exploration of Jewish texts, ritual, and customs, led by Rabbi Heather Miller. Registration required.

Congregation Ner Tamid (Reform)

Based in Las Vegas, Nevada, Congregation Ner Tamid fosters a warm, caring and inclusive environment for a diverse community, including individuals, couples, and families of all types. They are streaming services on their YouTube page.

Temple Emanuel, Beverly Hills (Reform)

Temple Emanuel in Beverly Hills believes in the power of connection, community, and commitment to our Jewish identity. They are streaming Yom Kippur services on their website.

Temple Bat Yahm, Orange County (Reform)

We are a center for Jewish life in Orange County, CA, a home away from home where you and your loved ones can share with us in the life-long Jewish journey of learning and discovery. They are streaming Yom Kippur services on their website.

International

Emanuel Synagogue (Sydney, Australia)

This “dynamic, pluralist Jewish congregation committed to Jewish tradition, creating community and celebrating diversity” will stream all their High Holidays services.

West London Synagogue

This “lively, active, inclusive community of progressive Jews” will stream all their High Holidays service on their website.

The post Where to Stream Yom Kippur Services for Free appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

In 2020, for most, High Holiday services were not experienced at synagogue but at home. The virtual model creates both challenges and opportunities for how to observe and celebrate. Holidays that previously required of us simply to show up at a certain time and place now ask for a bit more.

If you’re attending High Holiday services over Zoom, here are seven suggestions to help you get the most out of this virtual holiday experience.

1. Wear Holiday Clothing

It may be tempting to stay in pajamas, but it’s a good idea to dress in a way that will help you feel that the day is special. While the spirit of the holiday does not lay in our clothing, outer garments can have an impact on our inner experience. Some people have a tradition to wear a new shirt on Rosh Hashanah, and a kittel on Yom Kippur. Even if your computer’s camera is turned off and no one else will see what you’re wearing, you will feel the difference. 

2. Create a Beautiful Space Around Your Screen

Set up your space in a different way than your typical work-at-home station. If you normally sit in your office for work-related or Zoom learning sessions, sit in your living room. If you live in a studio apartment, put your screen somewhere else in the space, or flip it in the other direction. Giving yourself a different background can make for a different experience. Try to create a miniature sanctuary in your own home: Clean the space, hang a tapestry, put clutter in a drawer.

3. Stream Video on a Large Screen

If possible, stream services on a larger screen. Investigate what kind of cord is needed to connect your computer to your television, so that you won’t have to be so close to your computer screen. This will allow more space for your prayer experience. If you don’t have a television screen, close all other browsers on the device you’ll be using. Either way, create a small “worship space” at a distance from the screen.

4. Buy or Print a Mahzor

Try to buy or print the mahzor, or holiday prayer book, that will be used in the service. A printed book or pamphlet will add texture to your experience. Plus, If you have a hard copy, you won’t need to minimize or split screens while you watch a prayer service. Alternatively, set up two screens: one for the text of the machzor, and one for the service itself. (Check out My Jewish Learning’s guide to buying a mahzor here.)

5. Choose a Single Service

While it may be tempting to synagogue-hop, or wonder if there’s something better on another “channel,” it is better to choose one service ahead of time that you can commit to on the holiday. Or, if you do feel the need to switch, switch early, not often. Being fully present in one virtual space can add to a sense of being part of a community, even if that community is virtual or temporary. Staying with one service gives the day form and rhythm, offering a more integrated experience.

6. Participate

Participating can take many forms, but you’ll feel the difference between being an active participant and a passive spectator. Chant along, hum along, sway along, say the words, read the translation. Bow, stand and sit if you are able. Even if you can’t hear, see, or touch the other participants, you become part of a virtual congregation when you bring your full self to the service.

7. Make It Holy, However You Can

All of these suggestions are based on the premise that we, as participants in the service, can take active steps to co-create both sacred space and sacred time. By doing this, we distinguish the holidays from other days, just as Shabbat is distinguished as holy (kodesh), from the other days of the week which are profane (chol). This Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, more than ever before, you have the opportunity to create an atmosphere in your home – a makeshift Temple – that can highlight the holiness of the days. Making your space and this unique moment in time holy, however you see fit, will add a new dimension to your holiday observance. 

How are you spending the High Holidays this year? Share your plans, suggestions, and questions in My Jewish Learning’s vibrant Facebook discussion group, Let’s Talk Jewish Holidays.

The post High Holiday Zoom Services: How to Get the Most out of Them appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

Editor’s Picks

Click on the title of any event for registration information.

A Talmudic Perspective on Yom Kippur, from Pardes Institute for Jewish Education

Pardes, a Jewish learning community based in Jerusalem, offers a look inside the Talmudic Tractate Yoma to explore the Yom Kippur concepts of fasting, affliction, and atonement. Led by veteran instructor Leah Rosenthal.

When: Wednesdays, September 2 through September 23 at 1:00 p.m. ET/10:00 am PT. 

Preparing Your Heart for the High Holy Days with Meditation and Text, from the Peninsula Jewish Community Center:

This community center in Foster City, CA, is offering a month’s worth of unique holiday programs during Elul, including this workshop led by Rabbi Dan Feder.

When: Thursday, September 3 at 10:00 pm ET/7:00 pm PT.

A Close Reading of Akedat Yitzchak, the Binding of Isaac, from the Drisha Institute for Jewish Education

Drisha, an educational organization offering text-based study for adult learners, offers this close study of the story of the binding of Isaac, which is read from the Torah on the second day of Rosh Hashanah.

When: Tuesdays, September 1, 8, 15, and 22 at 1:00 pm ET/10:00 am PT.

High Holiday Teaching Series, from Hadar

Join Hadar, an egalitarian educational institution based in New York City, for a series of holiday explorations from their faculty, including Rabbi Aviva Richman, Rabbi Ethan Tucker, and Dena Weiss.

When: The evening before each holiday begins, starting Thursday, September 17 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT

The Apologies Exchange: A Tashlich Project, from HighHolidays@Home

Join HighHolidays@Home, a platform for Do-It-Yourself Jewish New Year rituals. This session is a tashlich webinar to help you cast your sins away, led by the founder of Haggadot.com, Eileen Levinson.

When: Thursday, September 10 at 2:00 pm ET/11:00 am PT.

Elul Reflections with the Women’s Rabbbinic Network

Watch video reflections from inspiring rabbis from the Women’s Rabbinic Network, an organization for female Reform rabbis.

When: Ongoing, leading up to the High Holidays.

Additional Learning Events Throughout the Month:

High Holidays ReCreation Workshop with Judaism Unbound and Jewish Live

Join Judaism Unbound and Jewish Live, organizations that produce a weekly podcast and many other Jewish events, for a 3-part series on how to develop meaningful rituals for the High Holiday season. Led by Dan Libenson and Natalie Goldfein.

When: Two tracks available. Sundays, September 6, 13, and October 25 at 11:00 am ET/8:00 am PT, and Tuesdays, September 8, 15, and October 20 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT.

Knocking at Our Hearts, with Mayyim Hayyim

Join Mayyim Hayyim, a community mikveh and educational center based in Boston, MA, in preparing your body and soul with the transcendental power of song, text study, and reflection. Led by popular Jewish musician Joey Weisenberg.

When: Wednesday, September 9 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT.

Finding Our Voices: A High Holiday Learning Experience with the Jewish Federation of Seattle

Join The Jewish Federation of Seattle for this 4-part series on listening, forgiving, and rebuilding.

When: Thursdays, September 10, 24, and October 1 at 3:00 pm ET/12:00 pm PT. The series culminates in an online community celebration on Tuesday, October 6 at 11:00 pm ET/ 8:00 pm PT.

Elul Together, with Hebrew College

Join Hebrew College, a non-denominational college of Jewish studies in Newton, MA, for weekly teachings, art, and journal prompts to accompany you as you prepare for the High Holidays.

When: A new video will be posted every Monday through September 14, and archived teachings can be found on the same page. 

Return: A Four Part Journey, with HaMaqom

HaMaqom, a learning community based in Berkeley, CA, offers this learning series that draws from music, silence, and text study. Led by Rabbi Darren Kleinberg.

When: Wednesday, September 16, Saturday September 19, Wednesday September 23, and Monday September 28. All sessions meet at 6:00 pm ET/ 3:00 pm PT.

Art as Spiritual Practice: Weekly Crafting Projects Through the High Holidays, with Here For

Here For is an organization that supports Jewish home-based ritual, offering a homemade weekly craft project throughout the High Holidays.

When: New projects are posted on Fridays, and all past projects can be accessed at this same link.

Renewing Our Communities and Ourselves: An Elul Workshop Series with Ritualwell

Ritualwell, a website for creating and sharing Jewish rituals, invites you to a 2-part series in preparation for Rosh Hashanah. The first session, “Who By Silence?” is led by Rabbi Emily Cohen, and the second session, “Cultivating Trust” is led Rabbi Dorothy Richman.

When: Sundays, September 6 and 13 at 2:00 pm ET/11:00 am PT.

The Shofar Project, with the Institute for Jewish Spirituality

The Institute for Jewish Spirituality, an organization that focuses on Jewish contemplative traditions, is offering a series of classes in preparation for the High Holidays.

When: Throughout the month leading up to Rosh Hashanah.

Praying with Confidence, with the Jewish Mindfulness Center of St. Louis

The Jewish Mindfulness Center of St. Louis, an organization that helps incorporate mindfulness practice into daily life, is hosting a conversation for those who may be unaccustomed to High Holiday prayer, with an opportunity to ask questions.

When: Wednesdays, September 2 and 9 at 8:00 pm ET/7:00 pm CT/5:00 pm P.T.

Inside Mishkan Hanefesh: A Conversation on Today’s Machzor, with CCAR Press

The editorial team of this popular High Holiday prayer book discuss its philosophy and innovation. Mishkan Hanefesh was first released in 2015 by the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR), the central organization of the Reform movement.

When: Thursday, September 3 at 12:30 pm ET/9:30 am PT.

DIY High Holidays 2020: A Practical Guide, with the Pop-Up Beit Midrash

The Pop-Up Beit Midrash, a new Jewish educational enterprise in London, teams up with Grassroots Jews, Yelala, and Moishe House for this series focusing on practical questions for how to cope with Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur at home.

When: Wednesdays, September 2, 9, 16 and 23 at 5:45 pm ET/2:45 pm PT.

Confessions of the Heart: 30-Day Racial Equality Challenge with the Jewish Emergent Network

This program with the Jewish Emergent Network, an organization comprising seven path-breaking Jewish communities across the U.S., offers a weekly prompt and two communal conversations.

When: Wednesday, September 2 and Tuesday September 15 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT.

High Holiday Workshops, with National Jewish Outreach Program

Learn more about Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot, in three sessions with Rabbi Buchwald.

When: Tuesday, September 15, 22, and 29 at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT.

Mastering the Machzor, at the Jewish Center

The Jewish Center, a Modern Orthodox synagogue in NYC, offers this learning session about the High Holiday prayer book. Led by Rabbi Elie Buechler and Hazzan Joe Green.

When: Wednesdays, September 16 and 23 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT.

30 for 30, with Temple Emanuel of Bergen County

Temple Emanuel, a Conservative synagogue in NJ, offers a different learning opportunity every day of the month leading up to Rosh Hashanah 5781.

When: Every day until Rosh Hashanah, September 18.

DIY Rosh Hashanah at Home, with Orangetown Jewish Center

This 3-part series on how to prepare for the High Holidays at home, is offered by Orangetown Jewish Center, a Conservative synagogue in Rockland County, NY.

When: August 27, September 3, and September 9 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT.

The Torah of Elul, with Ikar

Rabbi David Kasher from Ikar, a Jewish community in Los Angeles, CA, asks: What do the Torah and commentary say about how to get ready for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?

When: Wednesdays, September 2 and 9 at 3:00 pm ET/12:00 pm PT.

A Different Voice? Women and Shofar in a Time of Pandemic with Torah in Motion

Join Torah in Motion, a  Jewish educational institution based in Toronto, Canada, for this session led by Laurie Novick.

When: Sunday, September 6 at 11:00 am ET/ 8:00am PT.

Music and Liturgy for the Season at Union Temple

Join Union Temple, a Reform congregation in Brooklyn, for a session on High Holidays music and liturgy.

When: Sunday, September 6 at 1:00 pm ET/10:00 am PT.

Teshuvah 2020 Style, at Sutton Place Synagogue

Join Sutton Place Synagogue, a Conservative synagogue in NYC, to address these questions: What have we learned about ourselves this year, and how will we enter the year ahead?

When: Fridays, September 4 and 11 at 11:00 am ET/8:00 am PT.

Past, Present, and Future: Reflecting on the Year That Was and Will Be, at Bnai Israel Congregation

Rabbi Michael Safra of Bnai Israel Congregation, a Conservative synagogue in Rockville, MD, leads this class on the Rosh Hashanah musaf service, and how to derive meaning from the liturgy this year.

When: Tuesday, September 8 at 7:30 pm ET/4:30 pm PT.

Forgiveness and the High Holy Days, with Temple Israel

Join these sessions on the topic of forgiveness with Rabbi Moss and Rabbi Nemitoff-Bresler of Temple Israel, a Reform congregation in Westport, CT.

When: Fridays, August 28, and September 4 and 11 at 12:00 pm ET/9 am PT.

Teshuvah Lecture at Congregation Or Zarua

In this year’s annual lecture, Dr. Daniel Gordis addresses the question: Will Teshuvah bring American and Israeli Jews Closer Together? Congregation Or Zarua is a traditional egalitarian synagogue in NYC.

When: Wednesday, September 23 at 12:00 pm ET/9:00 am PT.

Slichot Across Brooklyn

Attend an online service on the Saturday evening before Rosh Hashanah, with a group of Brooklyn synagogues.

When: Saturday, September 12 at 9:00 pm ET/6:00 pm PT.

Statewide Slichot Services, Maine

This service with the Center for Small Town Jewish Life in Maine, will offer the opportunity to pray, sing and reflect.

When: Saturday, September 12 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT.

Selihot Night Live, with the Conservative Movement

The Conservative movement comes together to learn, sing and connect. Over 60 rabbis and cantors will present, and there will be a number of service options.

When: Saturday, September 12 at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT

Plus: Don’t miss My Jewish Learning’s own High Holidays services, classes, and more! Check out our full schedule here.

The post Your Guide to the Best Elul and High Holidays Classes and Events appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with Us

Friday, September 18, 2020: Rosh Hashanah Eve

5:30 p.m. ET: Rosh Hashanah Eve Family Service. Join Kveller and musician Alicia Jo Rabins to welcome Rosh Hashanah and Shabbat with a family-oriented service.

Saturday, September 19, 2020: Rosh Hashanah Day 1

11:00 a.m. ET: Rosh Hashanah Speed Service. Learn about and recite all the must-know Rosh Hashanah prayers and songs, and even hear some of the Torah portion, all in an hour’s time! Don’t miss this unique prayer service led by Rabbi Benjamin Resnick.

1:00 p.m. ET: Torah Study. Explore the story, themes, and characters of the Rosh Hashanah torah portion, Genesis chapter 21. Led by Israeli Rabbi Efrat Rotem.

2:00 p.m. ET: Rosh Hashanah: The Day of Remembering. Why is Rosh Hashanah known as Yom Hazikaron, the Day of Remembering? Explore the importance of memory on this day, with popular teacher and speaker David Gottlieb.

3:30 p.m. ET: Traditional Poems of Repentance for Rosh Hashanah. The Rosh Hashanah liturgy is filled with beautiful piyutim, or poems chanted during services. Learn some of these and sing with Margo Hughes-Robinson.

Sunday, September 20, 2020: Rosh Hashanah Day 2

11:00 a.m. ET: Shofar Service. Watch and listen to the shofar service streamed live on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

2:00 p.m. ET: Shofar Service. Watch and listen to an additional shofar service streamed live on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

Throughout the Day: Catch an Inspiring High Holiday Sermon. Watch sermons from rabbis across the Jewish spectrum and across the country, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s YouTube channel.

Don’t miss a moment of these special free Rosh Hashanah programs. Click here to sign up for updates, notifications, Zoom links, and more.

Observe Yom Kippur With Us

Sunday, September 27, 2020, Yom Kippur Eve

7:00 p.m. ET: Kol Nidrei Service. Welcome Yom Kippur with this moving, haunting evening service. Led by Cantor Hayley Kobilinsky. Streamed live on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

Monday, September 28, 2020, Yom Kippur Day

11:00 a.m. ET: Yom Kippur Speed Service. Learn about and recite all the must-know Yom Kippur prayers and songs, and even hear some of the Torah portion, all in an hour’s time! Don’t miss this unique prayer service led by Rabbi Benjamin Resnick.

1:00 p.m. ET: Jonah: A Prophet Who Argues With God. Explore the Book of Jonah, traditionally read on Yom Kippur afternoon. This class will focus on the character of Jonah, a prophet who hears God, but doesn’t much like what he hears. Led by Rabbi Sara Brandes.

2:00 p.m. ET: The History and Mystery of Yizkor. Yizkor provides people with a chance to remember and honor deceased loved ones, especially on a day we are reminded of our vulnerability and mortality. Learn more about the tradition of Yizkor with Reb Simcha Raphael.

3:30 p.m. ET: Traditional Poems of Repentance for Yom Kippur. The Yom Kippur liturgy is filled with beautiful piyutim, or poems chanted during services. Learn some of these and sing with Margo Hughes-Robinson.

7:15 p.m. ET: Neila Service. The final service of Yom Kippur, which marks the closing of the day, culminates in one long Shofar blast. Complete your Holiday experience with this beautiful prayer service led by Rabbi Benjamin Resnick.

Don’t miss a moment of these special free Yom Kippur programs. Click here to sign up for updates, notifications, Zoom links, and more.

More Classes, Events, and Rituals as the Holidays Approach

My Jewish Learning is offering a wide range of classes and events throughout the Holiday season. Click on the link provided to register for a specific class.

Exploring the Hebrew Calendar: Elul – Thursday, August 20, 2:00 p.m. ET: Rabbi Daniel Raphael Silverstein explores the unique characteristics of the month of Elul, and how to connect these traditions to our lives today. We will discuss biblical teachings, early rabbinic texts, Kabbalah, and the Chasidic masters. Monthly classes at 2pm EDT, on or near the first of the Hebrew month. Register here for Zoom link and updates.

Daily Shofar blasts for the month of Elul: Friday, August 21 – Friday, September 18 ET: Hear the shofar on every day of Elul, at 10:00 a.m. EDT. Click here to join on Facebook.

Shofar: The Piercing Cry: Monday, August 24, 12:00 p.m. ET: Rabbi Menachem Creditor explores texts and thoughts about the shofar, the most primal sound in Jewish tradition. What is it about the shofar that touches so deep? And how do the sounds compel us to pay attention?  Click here to register.

Pathways of Teshuvah: Mondays August 24 and 31, and September 14, at 3:00 pm. ET: In this 3-part class with My Jewish Learning, Jewish educator Abby Eisenberg explores diverse aspects and approaches to teshuvah. Translated literally as ‘returning’ and often understood as ‘repentence,’ teshuvah is a process of reflection, introspection, and change. In these weeks before Rosh Hashanah, we will learn various nuanced approaches to teshuvah, and consider ways to integrate these into our lives during these challenging times and beyond. Click here to register.

How to Celebrate the Holidays at Home: Tuesday, September 1, 12:00 p.m. ET: Join Rabbanit Dasi Fruchter and Marc Fein for this interactive workshop to help you create a meaningful High Holidays experience at home. Click here to register.

Rosh Hashanah: The Day of Remembering: Wednesdays, September 2 and 9, 12:00 p.m. ET: In this 2-session class, David Gottlieb explores how our memories are revised at this time of year. What do Torah and liturgy say about what we should remember? Why is Rosh Hashanah called Yom Hazikaron, “The Day of Remembrance”? Click here to register.

Challah Baking for Rosh Hashanah with Shannon Sarna: Monday, September 14, 10:30 a.m. ET: Registration coming soon!

Selichot: A Meditation for Forgiving Ourselves and Others: Wednesday, September 16, 4:30 p.m. ET. Come experience Selichot with My Jewish Learning and Rabbi Marc Margolius from the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. Selichot is a collection of penitential prayers traditionally recited in the days leading up to the Jewish New Year. Rabbi Margolius will introduce us to these central prayers, and lead a creative, guided meditation on the spiritual practice of surrender: releasing harsh judgments of ourselves and others for the ways in which we have “missed the mark” over this past year. Click here to register.

Tashlich: A Ritual Experience: Monday, September 21, 2:00 p.m. ET. Join Rabbi Lee Moore for a meaningful, virtual Tashlich ritual — either from a body of water in your neighborhood or from home. Tashlich is traditionally performed on or after Rosh Hashanah, by casting bits of bread, leaves, or sticks into a body of water, symbolically shedding misdeeds or whatever we don’t wish to bring into the new year. Click here to register.

Spiritual Practice for the Days of Awe: Monday through Friday, September 21-25, 12:00 p.m. ET: In this 5-day class, Rabbi Dorothy Richman invites us to tap into new awareness during the days that bridge Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of the Jewish year, and Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the calendar. Each session will include text, discussion and a spiritual practice for this transformational time. Click here to register.

Reminder: Register for services and programs on the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur holidays here.

The post Join My Jewish Learning Live Online for the High Holiday Season appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

But even when those things are unavailable to us, we can still have a meaningful High Holiday experience. Rosh Hashanah celebrates the creation of the world. And when the familiar parts of the holiday are absent, we still have an opportunity to create a new experience of the High Holidays at home.

As you think about celebrating the holidays at home, here some questions to consider:

• Do you want to try to replicate a traditional synagogue experience at home or try something completely different?
• Who are the people you want to share this holiday with?
• What are the songs, smells, and tastes you associate with the holiday?
• What are the key traditionsI want to perform for myself or share with my family?
• What do I need spiritually and emotionally right now? And how might I design a holiday experience that meets me where I am?

With these questions in mind, here are some suggestions to help you create a meaningful High Holidays experience by yourself or with a small group at home.

Get Ready

The High Holidays are a time of preparation. In fact, Jewish tradition teaches that the entire month of Elul that immediately precedes the High Holidays is meant to be a time of reflection and spiritual preparation. Between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is another preparatory period, the Ten Days of Repentance, when we closely examine our deeds and repair broken relationships. Use these times well.

• Get a jar: Keep a glass jar in a place that you see often. In the days leading up to Rosh Hashanah, write notes and place them in the jar — the name of someone you want to pray for, a question you want to ask, a character trait you want to work on. This will help you get into the mindset of this time of year and give you something to focus on during your prayers. Watch the jar fill up as Rosh Hashanah approaches.
• Start studying: A profusion of online classes are available. Sign up for one or two. Or check out My Jewish Learning’s extensive library of High Holiday articles and preparatory webinars.

Create the Mood

Even when we are unable to attend a synagogue in person, we can still create a makom tefillah, a place of prayer, in our homes.

• Pick a spot. Choose an area of your house to designate for prayer? What energy do you want it to have? Which chair will you use? What will you look at? Consider placing pictures of family and Jewish books in the space, or covering up electronics or other items that might distract you from your prayers.
• Get dressed up. Dressing up for the holiday creates a feeling of nobility and importance. Some people wear a kittel, a traditional white garment, to symbolize the purity of the day. What can you wear that will evoke specialness? This could be something new or putting on a garment with special meaning.
• Create some sound. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are associated with classic melodies unique to these days. What tunes do you want to learn in advance so you can make sure to sing them as you pray? Click here to learn some of the classics.

Get Cooking

Like all Jewish holidays, food is an essential piece of the Rosh Hashanah experience.

• Do it with family: Just because we’re physically separate doesn’t mean we can’t cook with our family. This can take the form of cooking together on a video call or simply preparing the same recipe. It might even be an opportunity to share reminiscences about a beloved recipe you’re eaten before.
• Be symbolic: Part of the fun of Rosh Hashanah is the simanim, or symbolic foods like apples and honey that we eat to have a sweet year, or a fish head to represent the hope that we finish first in our endeavors. What symbolic foods can you create for your family? Maybe take advantage of the sourdough craze to symbolize our hope to be “rolling in dough” next year. Or jump on the whipped coffee trend as a sign of a “wakeful” year. Have fun with it!

Do It With Others

For many of us, the High Holidays are a time to come together as a community. It may feel strange not to be praying in a room with others on the holiday. But there are still ways to create a sense of togetherness anyway.

• Get on video: If you don’t use electronics on the holiday, schedule a video call in advance to give friends and family blessings for a sweet new year. Consider expressing one wish that you want to send to your loved ones as they enter the holiday.
• Time it right: Think about asking your family to do one (or a few) things at the same time, either during prayers or meals.
• Put it in the mail: Ask family and friends to send you a letter in the mail — a lovely departure from our current dependence on screens. Maybe they’re reflections on the past year or ideas about ways to bring holiness to the world in the year to come. Maybe they’re just personal messages. Whatever they are, read them aloud to yourself on the holiday.

Sounding the Inner Shofar

The core ritual of Rosh Hashanah is the sounding of the shofar. If you can’t get to hear the shofar in person, here are some alternatives.

• Connect with intention: The purpose of the shofar is help us connect with our inner truth, to evoke repentance and mimic the sound of crying. This can be done through simple breathing. Try setting an intention of something you want to bring into your life this year (inhale) and something you want to remove from your life this year (exhale).
• The shofar as breath: This can be taken even further by breathing in the form of the shofar sounds. For the long single tone known as tekiah, take one deep breath in and exhale. For the three shorter tones known as shevarim, take three deep breaths and exhale completely after each. For the quick bursts known as t’ruah, take seven quick breaths with quick bursts of exhales. And for the final tekiah gedolah, take one final deep breath and exhale all the air from your lungs. Repeat this three times. Notice the impact on your body and revisit your intentions. How do you think and feel about them? Where did your mind go while you were breathing the shofar?

The post How to Celebrate the High Holidays At Home appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

This guide provides a list of free options for streaming of Rosh Hashanah services online in all U.S. time zones. Because strict holiday observance precludes using electricity and computers on Rosh Hashanah, not many Orthodox synagogues are listed here.

East Coast (Eastern Daylight Time)

Adas Israel (Conservative)

Adas Israel, located in Washington, D.C., was founded in 1869. It is “socially-conscious, and aspires to celebrate Conservative Judaism at its creative best.” Led by Rabbi Lauren Holtzblatt and Rabbi Aaron Alexander. All High Holiday services will be streamed on their webpage.

B’nai Jeshurun (Unaffliated)

B’nai Jeshurun is a nearly 200-year-old unaffiliated synagogue located in New York City. They bring together a multi-generational community in prayer, music, learning, joyful celebration, and activism. They will be streaming all High Holiday services. Additional info can be found here.

Central Synagogue (Reform)

This congregation is one of the largest synagogues in North America. The synagogue streams its High Holidays services, led by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, for free on its website, YouTube channel, and Facebook page. Full holiday schedule and links can be found here.

Lab/Shul (Unaffiliated)

Lab/Shul is “an artist-driven, everybody-friendly, God-optional, pop-up experimental community for sacred Jewish gatherings, based in New York City. Led by Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie. High Holiday services will be streamed on their YouTube channel.

Park Avenue Synagogue (Conservative)

This 1,650-family Manhattan congregation’s vision includes practicing “a Judaism filled with love, literacy, reverence, compassion, and joy” and striving “to make our ancient tradition compelling and welcoming to contemporary Jewry and to serve as a light unto our fellow Jews and the nations.” Led by Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove. More High Holiday information and full services schedule here.

Temple Emanu-El (Reform)

Founded in 1845, Emanu-El was New York City’s first Reform congregation. Led by Rabbi Joshua Davidson. Full holiday schedule available here.

Town & Village Synagogue (Conservative)

Traditional, participatory, and egalitarian, T&V has members from throughout the New York area. Led by Rabbi Larry Sebert. You may need to email the synagogue to receive the Zoom info. Full holiday schedule available here.

Stephen Wise Free Synagogue (Reform)

This century-old Reform synagogue on the Upper West Side of Manhattan is led by Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch. Full holiday schedule available here.

Temple Beth El (Reform)

Temple Beth El of Boca Raton was founded in 1967. They will live stream High Holiday services on their website.

Jewish Broadcasting Service (Reform and Orthodox)

The Jewish Broadcasting Service will be streaming Reform services from Central Synagogue and Orthodox services from Hampton Synagogue. 

Midwest (Central Daylight Time)

Congregation Temple Israel (Reform)

Congregation Temple Israel in St. Louis, MO, strives to be a holy community through worship that is participatory, joyful, musical, and inter-generational. All High Holiday services will be streamed live on their website.

Temple Beth-El San Antonio (Reform)

High Holiday services for this historic Texas congregation are broadcast on their website ; Shabbat services are also regularly broadcast and archived on the streaming site. Led by Rabbi Mara Nathan, an associate rabbi and a cantor. See the full High Holiday service schedule here.

Mount Zion Temple (Reform)

Mount Temple is located in St. Paul, Minnesota. The High Holiday services will be streamed on their website.

Congregation Bene Shalom (Non-Denominational)

Bene Shalom, in Skokie Illinois, was founded in 1948 by deaf Jews. All services are ASL interpreted. The schedule and Zoom links for High Holiday services can be found on their website.

Shir Chadash (Conservative)

Shir Chadash is an inclusive community located in New Orleans, Louisiana, open not only to conservative Jews but to Jews of any or no denominational affiliation.

West Coast (Pacific Daylight Time)

Congregation Shir Hadash (Reform)

Located in Los Gatos, California, Shir Hadash describes itself as “an evolving, vibrant, growing Reform Jewish congregation dedicated to providing a sense of community for its members as well as opportunities for spiritual growth and developing a strong Jewish identity.” Their High Holy Day services offer time to be awakened, time to reflect and time to grow. It is led by Rabbi Nico Socolovsky,  Cantor Devorah Felder-Levy and Rabbi PJ Schwartz.

Stephen Wise Temple (Reform)

Located in Los Angeles, CA, Stephen Wise Temple is a community that “makes meaning, and changes the world.” They will be streaming all of their High Holiday services via Zoom, Facebook and YouTube.

Keeping it Sacred (Unaffiliated)

Keeping it Sacred is a center for exploration of Jewish texts, ritual, and customs, led by Rabbi Heather Miller. Registration required.

International

Emanuel Synagogue (Sydney, Australia)

This “dynamic, pluralist Jewish congregation committed to Jewish tradition, creating community and celebrating diversity” will stream all their High Holidays services.

West London Synagogue

This “lively, active, inclusive community of progressive Jews” will stream all their High Holidays service on their website.

On-Demand Streaming

Institute for Southern Jewish Life (Multi-Denominational)

The Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life will offer pre-recorded High Holiday services with Rabbi Caroline Sim. The services will be available for streaming on their website.

The post Where to Stream Rosh Hashanah Services for Free appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

Fortunately, for Jews celebrating the High Holidays in 2020, tashlich is one ritual that can remain mostly unchanged. It takes place outside, allows plenty of room for social distancing, and can be performed individually or with just a small group. Many Jewish institutions in the New York area are offering either virtual tashlich ceremonies or in-person, socially-distanced opportunities for the ritual. Check out some of these events from local synagogues or organizations below:

Tamid, the Downtown Synagogue

This congregation, based in lower Manhattan, will offer in-person tashlich on both days of Rosh Hashanah. Non-members are welcome. More information is available on the synagogue’s full High Holidays schedule of events.

Park Avenue Synagogue

The Upper East Side synagogue will stream a virtual tashlich on their live-streaming website. The synagogue has produced a beautiful tashlich guide to use as you follow the livestream or on your own this year.

Congregation Rodeph Sholom

This Upper West Side synagogue will offer in-person tashlich for small groups of people who register in advance. (See the synagogue’s full schedule for details.) For anyone performing tashlich on their own, their handy guide will help you make the most out of the ritual.

Jewish Community Project

This downtown venue will host tashlich as part of its robust calendar of offerings for all ages for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Check out the full schedule and access streaming links here.

Chabad Jewish Center Prospect Heights West

The Prospect Heights Chabad is holding a tashlich service at the Gowanus Canal in northwest Brooklyn on September 20 at 4:30 p.m. Tashlich will be preceded by a shofar sounding at Dean Street Park. Details available on the Chabad center’s calendar.

Congregation Emanu-El, Westchester

The Westchester synagogue will host an in-person tashlich event on September 20. Registration is required and questions should be directed to the synagogue’s office. Check the synagogue’s High Holidays schedule for more information.

Scarsdale Synagogue Temples Tremont & Emanu-El

On the second day of Rosh Hashana, September 20, there is an Outdoor Shofar Blowing at Scarsdale Synagogue, followed by a self-guided Tashlich event at Butler Woods from 3-3:15 p.m. Only 50 people will be accommodated at a time and an RSVP is requested. Details on the temple’s website here.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Don’t miss My Jewish Learning’s virtual tashlich experience on Monday, September 21, 2020. Find out more and register here. 

The post Where to Do Tashlich in New York During the Coronavirus Pandemic appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

On Rosh Hashanah, the first day of the month, we hear the shofar’s call for change, reminding us that the world is never immutable, no matter how fixed society might seem. Ten days later on Yom Kippur, we embody that change by disrupting our habits for a day, punctuating the 25-hour fast with individual and communal commitments to live with integrity. Three whole days later, we dwell in a sukkah of peace, a tent that in its parameters is truly big enough for everyone.

What bridges these days together is the birthday of humanity, or as the liturgy states hayom harat olam — today, the world was created. Our sages taught that the world was created on the 25th day of the previous month, Elul. Since Adam and Eve were created on the sixth day of the creation story Genesis 1:27, that makes the first day of Tishrei the birthday of humanity.

Like our individual birthdays, these Days of Awe and raw emotion encourage us to reflect on our collective and individual choices, assess our missteps, and integrate forthright changes so that we can reinstate our capacity as a species to build a world of humility, sacredness and shared fortitude.

As I write these words, I can’t help but think how different this Tishrei will be. As humanity prepares to mark its birthday, there are too many ways in which our planet faces an uncertain future. One has to wonder: Can the spiritual technology of Tishrei respond to a moment beset by civil unrest and profound polarization?

With multiple crises unfolding, the Jewish year 5780 has unmasked just how disparate the human experience is for people of different ages, locations, socioeconomic status, community, skin color and more. And yet, COVID-19 has also shown us all that there is a common link between all of us. Working to see ourselves in the other is like engaging in spiritual push-ups. And like physical push-ups, it is not always easy, but in the long run it’s worth it.

The new Jewish year will dawn at a time of great complexity. But Tishrei is also a moment to set a new standard and redefine humanity’s bond for the better — every year. These High Holidays teach us not to ignore or repel the realities of life, but to remain vigilant in reimagining what is possible. Here are three ways you might do that this year:

Love and honor yourself: So many in our generation feel lonely and helpless. How can you remind yourself of your unique soul qualities? If you listen to yourself, the answers will arise.

Consider your choices, actions and inactions: During the month of Tishrei, we engage in a process called teshuvah, returning to our best selves. What is something you regret or wish to free yourself of? Teshuvah is believing you can make life more pleasant for you and your fellow humans.

Unlearn that which is harmful, unjust and untrue: At the close of the fall holiday season on Simchat Torah, we return to the Torah as if it were brand new– not only because the rabbis were romantics, but also because sometimes we need to circle back to what we thought we knew to really move forward. What do we need to unlearn as a society to move forward? What do you as an individual need to unlearn?

The post Never Give Up on Humanity appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

Yom Kippur Evening Program

Sunday, September 27, 2020

Kol Nidrei Service
7:00 pm ET
Welcome Yom Kippur with this moving, haunting evening service. Led by Cantor Hayley Kobilinsky. Streamed live on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

Yom Kippur Sermon: Rabbi Rachel Sabath Beit-Halachmi
9:00 pm ET
Watch a Yom Kippur sermon delivered by Rabbi Rachel Sabath Beit-Halachmi of Ohavay Zion Synagogue in Lexington, Kentucky, as part of My Jewish Learning’s Days of Awe Sermon Slam. Streamed live on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

Yom Kippur Day

Monday, September 28, 2020

Register here to attend all programs on September 28.

Yom Kippur Morning Service
11:00 am ET
Learn about and recite all the must-know Yom Kippur prayers and songs, and even hear some of the Torah portion, all in an hour’s time! Don’t miss this unique prayer service led by Rabbi Benjamin Resnick.

Yom Kippur Sermon: Rabbi Ari Hart
12:30 pm ET
Watch a Yom Kippur sermon delivered by Rabbi Ari Hart of Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue in Skokie, Illinois, as part of My Jewish Learning’s Days of Awe Sermon Slam. Streamed live on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

Class on Jonah: A Prophet Who Argues With God
1:00 pm ET
Explore the Book of Jonah, traditionally read on Yom Kippur afternoon. This class will focus on the character of Jonah, a prophet who hears God, but doesn’t much like what he hears. Led by Rabbi Sara Brandes.

Class: The History and Mystery of Yizkor
2:00 pm ET
Yizkor provides people with a chance to remember and honor deceased loved ones, especially on a day we are reminded of our vulnerability and mortality. Learn more about the tradition of Yizkor with Reb Simcha Raphael.

Song Workshop: Traditional Poems of Repentance for Yom Kippur
3:30 pm ET
The Yom Kippur liturgy is filled with beautiful piyutim, or poems chanted during services. Learn some of these and sing with Margo Hughes-Robinson.

Yom Kippur Sermon: Rabbi Chai Levy
5:00 pm ET
Watch a Yom Kippur sermon delivered by Rabbi Chai Levy of Netivot Shalom, as part of My Jewish Learning’s Days of Awe Sermon Slam. Streamed live on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

Neila: Yom Kippur Concluding Service.
7:15 pm ET
The final service of Yom Kippur, which marks the closing of the day, culminates in one long Shofar blast. Complete your holiday experience with this beautiful prayer service led by Rabbi Benjamin Resnick.

Don’t miss a moment of these special free Yom Kippur programs. Click here to sign up for updates, notifications, Zoom links, and more.

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check out other live-streamed Yom Kippur services across the country.

The post My Jewish Learning’s Yom Kippur Program Schedule appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

Saturday, September 19, 2020: Rosh Hashanah Day 1

Register here for Rosh Hashanah Day 1 programs, including the speed service and afternoon classes.

11:00 a.m. ET: Rosh Hashanah Speed Service

. Learn about and recite all the must-know Rosh Hashanah prayers and songs, and even hear some of the Torah portion, all in an hour’s time! Don’t miss this unique prayer service led by Rabbi Benjamin Resnick.

1:00 p.m. ET: Torah Study. Explore the story, themes, and characters of the Rosh Hashanah torah portion, Genesis chapter 21. Led by Israeli Rabbi Efrat Rotem.

2:00 p.m. ET: Rosh Hashanah: The Day of Remembering. Why is Rosh Hashanah known as Yom Hazikaron, the Day of Remembering? Explore the importance of memory on this day, with popular teacher and speaker David Gottlieb.

3:30 p.m. ET: Traditional Poems of Repentance for Rosh Hashanah. The Rosh Hashanah liturgy is filled with beautiful piyutim, or poems chanted during services. Learn some of these and sing with Margo Hughes-Robinson.

Don’t miss a moment of these special free Rosh Hashanah programs. Click here to sign up for  Zoom links and additional information.

Additional Rosh Hashanah Day 1 programming will be streamed live on Facebook:

9:00 p.m. ET

: Watch Rabbi Rachel Isaacs deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

11:00 p.m. ET: Watch Rabbi Asher Lopatin deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

12:00 a.m. ET: Watch Rabbi Jason Rubinstein deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

1:00 a.m. ET: Watch Jonah Simcha Chaim Muskat-Brown deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

Sunday, September 20, 2020: Rosh Hashanah Day 2

All programs on Rosh Hashanah Day 2 will be streamed on Facebook. No registration is needed to join these events.

9:00 a.m. ET: Watch Rabbi Herzl Hefter deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

11:00 a.m. ET: Shofar Service. Watch and listen to the shofar service with Rabbi Mark Asher Goodman streamed live on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

12:00 p.m. ET: Watch Rabbi Danielle Upbin deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

1:00 p.m. ET: Watch Rabbi Elie Kaunfer deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

2:00 p.m. ET: Shofar Service. Watch and listen to a shofar service with Nili Salem, streamed live from her rooftop in Safed, Israel on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

4:00 p.m. ET: Watch Rabbi Hyim Shafner deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

6:00 p.m. ET: Watch Rabbi Heather Miller deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

7:00 p.m. ET: Watch Rabbi Ari Hart deliver a Rosh Hashanah sermon, streamed on My Jewish Learning’s Facebook page.

Shanah tova, happy new year!

The post My Jewish Learning’s Rosh Hashanah Program Schedule appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting all aspects of Jewish life, including how Jews will hear the shofar during this High Holidays season. Most people will not be able to hear the shofar being blown in person at synagogue, so many organizations in the New York area are offering outdoor shofar experiences for the community.

Here are a few live shofar blowings you might enjoy during the holiday:

Shofar in the Park, Manhattan

Sponsored by the Chabad of the West Side, the 9th annual event takes place in the picturesque Central Park on the second day of Rosh Hashana, which is September 20 this year. The shofar will be blown at Norman Landscape at 86th Street and Central Park West (the NE corner entrance) between 3 and 6 p.m. It is an in-person event only and the shofar will be blown by musician Haim Avitsur. Find more details on their website here. 

Shofar in the Streets

At this event, the shofar is taken outside the temple and into the streets. This event created by Temple Shaaray Tefila is a parade throughout the east side of Manhattan from East 96th Street uptown all the way to Seaward Park downtown on September 20 beginning at 4 p.m. Rabbi Mosbacher of Temple Shaaray Tefila will sound the main shofar blowing at East 79th Street and 2nd Avenue. From this parade, you can watch it from your window or see it while socially distanced and wearing masks.

Other congregations and institutions participating in the event include Congregation Emanu-El, East End Temple, Central Synagogue, Kehilath Jeshurun, Or Olam, the New York Board of Rabbis, and Park Avenue Synagogue. The full list of locations where the shofar will be blown is available on Temple Shaaray Tefila’s website here.

Shofar Across Brooklyn

UJA Federation of New York is making it easy to find a shofar to hear in neighborhoods across the borough of Brooklyn. Check the Shofar Across Brooklyn website here to find a local community that has committed to having a shofar blown on Sunday September 20, at 4 pm ET.

Shofar in the Park, Long Island

For residents of Long Island, Chabad of Manhasset is offering a shofar blowing program on the 2nd day of Rosh Hashanah, at 4 pm in Manhasset Valle Park. Find more details on their website here. 

Drive-By Shofar Blowing

If you’re located in Northern Westchester, try this drive-by shofar blowing before Rosh Hashanah begins, organized by Temple Beth El in Chappaqua. Stop by the synagogue September 18 at 3 pm for the live shofar blowing. More detail on the website here.

If you miss these events, be sure to check out the streaming shofar services from My Jewish Learning. We’ll broadcast these at 11 am ET and 2 pm ET on Sunday, September 20, 2020, from the My Jewish Learning Facebook page.

The post Where to Hear the Shofar in New York in 2020 appeared first on My Jewish Learning.

The biblical passage we read on the Jewish new year is enigmatic at best. On what Jewish tradition teaches is the anniversary of the creation of the world, perhaps the opening verses of Genesis might be appropriate. Or maybe something about the shofar, the ram’s horn we blow on the holiday to rouse us to repentance. But the Talmud prescribes that we read Chapters 21 and 22 of Genesis, which tell of the banishment of Hagar from the house of Abraham and the binding of Isaac. Stirring as these stories may be, what is their connection to Rosh Hashanah?

On reflection, these two chapters offer a kind of testimony against those who subscribe to the notion of certainty. Over and again, we find characters absolutely certain of a particular conviction. And over and over again, fate conspires to foil their expectations. What happens next in the narrative is never a fait accompli.

Sarah is convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt that she is condemned to live a life of childlessness. And yet she conceives.

Abraham is certain that Ishmael, his firstborn son, will become the heir to his spiritual legacy. But God has another plan.

Without water in the blazing heat of the desert, Hagar knows her son will perish. She’s so sure of this that she steps away from Ishmael so as to avoid watching his demise. Then she opens her eyes and discovers an oasis. She and her son will live to see another day.

And finally, in the story of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Abraham is so convinced he is carrying out God’s will that an angel must call out to him twice — “Abraham, Abraham” — before he is willing to stop short of sacrificing Isaac.

These stories offer a profound message in the midst of this pandemic. Like the biblical characters themselves, we too have been assaulted by feelings of resignation and helplessness. To those who would succumb to those feelings, Rosh Hashanah constitutes a vociferous voice of protest. Certainty is the province of the past. The present and the future are always open. They are, almost by definition, unpredictable. A new year means a new promise.

The uncertainty of the future may set us on edge, but it also means a whole constellation of possibilities are open before us.

Because of this perceived scourge of uncertainty, there’s been a tendency to put our lives on hold. Jewish tradition has nothing against waiting. The very first mishnah in Avot cautions us to be deliberate in judgment — to wait rather than rush headlong into an impulsive decision. After the Exodus, the Israelites waited 40 long years before they tasted the fruit of the Promised Land. For two millennia, we waited to come home to an Israel we could call our own.

It’s when we mistake waiting for deferral that we betray our tradition.

Around 500 years ago, the Chief Rabbi of Egypt, David ibn Zimra (1479-1573), received an unusual query. A Jewish prison inmate had made a plea for clemency to his local governor and was granted a one-day furlough. The date of the furlough was left to the discretion of the prisoner. What day, the inmate wondered, should he choose.

The Chief Rabbi’s advice was unequivocal: Today. Rather than wait, he suggested that his correspondent seize the moment to accomplish everything he could. And it’s sound advice for each of us on Rosh Hashanah. The tragedies or traumas of yesterday need not dictate the decisions we make today. When the sun sets on the 30th of Elul, the moment marks not just the beginning of a new year; it marks the beginning of a new day. Let’s make the most of it.

The post In Praise of Uncertainty appeared first on My Jewish Learning.