High Holy Days 5772: Shabbat Shuvah

Sabbath of Return

What is a Social Sermon? On Friday evening, September 30, at 8:00 pm, we will celebrate Shabbat Shuvah, the first Shabbat of the New Year, when we focus on our intentions for the upcoming year. Rabbi Levenberg will give a “social sermon,” which is an opportunity for members of the congregation to have their ideas reflected from the bima. A starting text and question will be posted in advance, and congregants will be invited to respond by email, Facebook, Google+, and Twitter. These replies will shape the final sermon. Come and see what we can create together! A special honeycake oneg will follow the service.

On Saturday morning, October 1, services will be held at Vasona Park in the Circle Group Area. With guitar and spirited singing we will celebrate Shabbat in the beauty of nature. After about 30 minutes of this informal service, the younger children will be invited on an exploration, while adult members of the congregation participate in a study of the special Prophetic portion for this Shabbat from which it gets its name. The children will rejoin us for a story, the concluding songs of the service, and a walk to the water’s edge to “cast our sins into the depths.” Following the Tashlich (casting off) ceremony, we will all join together in a shady brunch. Make your reservation with Nadine in the office, and receive your food assignment for the potluck. Bring beach chairs and blankets for more comfortable sitting.