Rabbi’s Weekly Message: Yom Kippur

Please join us at 7:30PM tomorrow evening for our annual Shabbat Shuvah service. You can join us online at https://tbsrockland.org/media-gallery/live-streaming/

As we approach Yom Kippur, I want to extend my warmest wishes for a meaningful and transformative holiday season. 

This year, our congregation is preparing for a Yom Kippur experience that addresses two pressing issues that affect not only our community but the world at large: the mental health epidemic and our collective struggle to embrace differences.

Kol Nidrei: Sunday, Sunday, Sept. 24th at 8:00 PM

Our Yom Kippur observance will commence with Kol Nidrei on Sunday evening at 8:00 PM. During this service, we will come together to recognize and discuss the mental health epidemic that has touched the lives of so many. We will offer prayers for those who are suffering, as well as provide resources and support for anyone in our congregation who may be struggling with mental health issues. In this moment of reflection and empathy, we hope to foster a sense of community and understanding that can help alleviate the burden of mental health challenges.

Yom Kippur Morning Services: Monday, Sept. 25th

– Morning Service 1: 9:30 AM 

– Morning Service 2: 11:30 AM

On Yom Kippur morning, we will gather at 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM for services where we will delve into the second major issue of our time – our inability to embrace differences. It is crucial, especially in these divided times, that we confront this challenge head-on. We will explore the power of unity and diversity within our congregation, celebrating the uniqueness of each individual while emphasizing the importance of tolerance and acceptance.

Yizkor Memorial Service: Monday, Sept. 25th at 1:30 PM

Following our morning services, we invite the wider community to join us for the Yizkor memorial service at 1:30 PM, where we will remember and honor our loved ones who have passed away. This solemn occasion provides an opportunity for reflection, closure, and the strengthening of our communal bonds.

Children’s Services: Monday, Sept. 25th at 4:00 PM

At 4 PM, we will host children’s services, ensuring that our younger members have a Yom Kippur experience tailored to their needs, fostering a connection to our traditions and values.  Puppets and a Shabbat dinosaur will be on hand. 

Afternoon and Neilah Services: Monday, Sept. 25th at 4:45 PM

We will conclude our Yom Kippur observance with the afternoon and Neilah services at 4:45 PM, marking the closing of the gates and our final opportunity for introspection and repentance before the day’s end.  A community-wide Break-the-Fast will be held in our social hall.  

As we gather to observe Yom Kippur, let us remember the importance of compassion, unity, and understanding. Together, we can face these pressing issues and work towards a more inclusive and supportive community.

May you have an easy and meaningful fast, and may you be inscribed for a year filled with health, happiness, and peace.

L’shanah tovah u’metukah! With warm regards,

Rabbi Leiken

Scroll to Top