Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) are the most solemn days in the Jewish calendar. With ritual, symbol, prayer, and festivity they invite us to reflect on the direction of our lives, the dreams we harbor, and potential we have for improving ourselves and the world around us. The shofar awakens us to face past mistakes. New Year cards gently mend relationships and restore closeness with those we love. The prayers remind us that we are capable of monumental achievement. And the honey-dipped apples prepare us for sweeter days ahead. We experience the New Year with the gravity of a milestone, a measure of growth, and time gone by, as well as anticipation of growth and dreams fulfilled.

We may also be reminded that dreams come true in unexpected ways, such as adoption. The machzor High Holiday prayerbook uplifts us with tales of miraculous rescues, hymns of comfort, and promises of second chances.

With the traditional words, “May you be inscribed for a sweet new year” we wish you and all those you love great joy, good health, and a year of fulfillment.