Dear Bet Torah Family,
We are looking forward to sharing the High Holy Days with you, and there is a lot we have planned for the weeks that precede them. We hope you are ready to try something new this year!
The Hebrew month of Elul, the last month before the High Holy Days, begins at sundown on Thursday, August 20. This special month serves as a bridge between the past year and the coming year, offering an opportunity to reflect on our actions and consider how to make changes toward personal improvement. Elul incorporates a warm-up to the three High Holy Day key themes – Tefillah (prayer), Tzedakah (caring), and Teshuva (repentance).
We are excited about this year’s opportunities to offer a rich calendar of virtual programming and social action activities during Elul and throughout the High Holy Days period. The range of creative programs will offer diverse windows into High Holy Day themes and liturgy through traditional prayer services, as well as online classes, activities, volunteerism, and personal reflection.
The ability to join together virtually provides many varied opportunities for us to connect and share with each other during this time of reflection and renewal. While we wish we could be meeting in person, we are moving forward with a profound commitment to and gratitude for our extraordinary community that is such a blessing to us all.
Meditate toward mindfulness, study Torah, sing, serve the community, donate blood, be creative – the month of Elul is filled with options for congregants of all ages and interests. Click here for the calendar of events, and be sure to check back often for new activities.
Important Message About Mahzorim (High Holy Day prayer books):
In order to enhance your participation in the virtual High Holy Day services, we want to make sure that each family has mahzorim (prayer books). Information about all of the options is available on the Bet Torah website here. Please sign up for a day and time to pick up mahzorim borrowed from Bet Torah. Also, books are available for purchase online to download for a low price. You may also purchase your own at a discounted price if you pre-order by August 20.
Opportunities for Community Service:
The Social Action Committee has organized many meaningful volunteer opportunities, including a Blood Drive, a multigenerational story telling program, a chance for children to make “We Care Cards” for congregants and decorate “Remembrance Stones” for mourners, a food drive, a chance to help with the mahzor (prayer book) distribution, a community partners “wish list” program, and sharing Sukkot with our interfaith partners. So many opportunities to help (and have fun at the same time)! More details here.
The High Holy Days and Technology Support:
We look forward to participating with you in the coming weeks. Watch your Bet Torah emails and check the Bet Torah High Holy Days page for information and to sign up for access to services. Information will be continually updated and you will also find answers to a wealth of Frequently Asked Questions.
Get ready for an exciting time!
Sincerely,
Amy Horowitz, President
Rabbi Aaron Brusso
Rabbi Lisa Sacks
Cantor Gil Ezring
