Last year’s High Holy Days brought us together in an unprecedented way. Rather than being together in sacred space, Zoom screens were the platform for our connection. No hugs. No harmonies. No food!
Now, we are back. These High Holy Days—G-d and science willing—bring us back together among our community, two years later. The holidays begin this year on September 6 for Erev Rosh Hashanah. Your rabbi, ritual team, board of trustees, director of education, health officer, our tech team, and a myriad of other helpers and volunteers have been working tirelessly to bring us back together to welcome in 5782.
Why is this year, too, different from all other years? This year we will join together for multi-access, hybrid services, as all of our services will be both in-person safely under the big tent as well as on Zoom and YouTube Live. We are eager to share the JCOGS High Holy Day schedule of events with you. For those joining us from home or those who wish to have their own copy, you can order your own Machzor High Holy Day prayerbook.
We are truly excited. This year will include beautiful music, members reading Torah and haftarah, and poignant prayers. It will include words from Rabbi David that meet this moment in history. We will sing, schmooze, cast our sins away in the water, hear the shofar, play out the story of Jonah, and yes, nosh! We will remember lost loved ones and also celebrate simchahs in our lives. Children are encouraged to be a part of services. Childminding with activities will be provided for young children ages birth to 7 throughout all Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services, as well as holiday activities for elementary age youth.
We will not be issuing tickets this year. Members and guests will be placed on a list as you arrive at our welcome table. If you have not yet renewed your membership, please do so as soon as possible. Finances should not be a barrier to membership. If dues present a financial hardship or if you need a payment schedule, please complete your renewal online and we will be in touch to confidentially discuss alternative arrangements.
You are also invited to acknowledge and remember your loved ones during this High Holy Day season while supporting JCOGS through the Yizkor Book of Remembrance. The monies raised help support our continual holy work as a community. Please complete this form with the deadline of August 30.
Rav brachot, many blessings for health, renewal, and a return to our truest selves.
Rabbi David Fainsilber and the ritual team: Susan Bauchner, Willa Bruckner, Rachel Funk, Aron Temkin, and Claudia Woodward
