The sounding of the shofar, a trumpet made from a ram’s horn, heralds Rosh Hashanah. This ancient instrument’s cry serves as a call to repentance and a reminder to Jews that God is their king.
A festive meal, rich in symbolism and tradition, is shared with family and friends. Typically, a blessing is said over two round loaves of bread known as Challah. The round shape symbolizes a crown, reminding us of God’s kingship and representing the circle of life and the enduring hope for our lives.
Apples dipped in honey, another Rosh Hashanah tradition, symbolize the wish for a sweet year.
Yom Kippur, the most significant holiday in the Jewish faith, is considered the day when we are closest to God and to the essence of our own souls. It is a day of atonement, as “on this day He will forgive you, to purify you, that you be cleansed from all your sins before God,” marking the culmination of the 10 Days of Awe. Yom Kippur begins on the evening of October 11. For nearly 26 hours, from just before sunset on October 11 until after nightfall on October 12, we afflict our souls by abstaining from food and drink, refraining from washing or anointing our bodies, and avoiding leather footwear. Instead, our time is spent in prayer to God.
High Holy Day services commence with Selichot on Saturday, September 28, at 6 p.m. For more information and a complete service schedule, visit lakechapalajewishcongregation.com or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The temple is located at Sta. Margarita 113, in Riberas del Pilar.