By Rabbi Moshe Elbaz | Temple Israel

VALDOSTA — Jewish communities around the US and around the world are gathering in their temples, congregations, synagogues, and places of worship to celebrate the Jewish New Year of 5785.

This High Holiday season is the time of the year when prayers are recited for repentance, peace, and messages of self-examination and inspiration delivered by rabbis. A special tradition is to partake in a birthday party of the world, which includes dipping apples in honey.

The Jewish High Holidays began with Rosh Ha’Shanah, the Jewish New Year which began Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Israel. Rabbi Moshe Elbaz assisted by Susan Rupright conducted the services. Special guests included state Sen. Russ Goodman, District 8, who shared his experiences of last October when he, his mother and church members touring Israel found themselves in the midst of the Hamas attack on Israel. In addition, Britt McLane, representing McLane Funeral Home, was honored by Temple Israel for their support, professionalism and kindness over the years. Tamara Hardesdy recited the beautiful prayer of “Avinu Malkenu/Our Father, Our King.”

As stated in the liturgy: “All the inhabitants of the world pass before God like a flock of sheep,” and it is decreed in the heavenly court, “who shall live, and who shall die…who shall be impoverished, and who shall be enriched…”, and it is also the day, we proclaim God King of the universe. The Kabbalists (Jewish mysticism) teach that continued existence of the universe is dependent on a renewal of the divine desire for a world when makes a renewed commitment. The concept of Teshuvah – Repentance comes about through prayer and is manifested in deeds of charity.

The Torah Scroll/Five Books of Moses open for public reading from Genesis 21 & 22, recalling the promise made to Abraham & Sarah of the birth of Isaac.

Yom Kippur – Day of Atonement begins Friday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m. Services continue throughout Saturday, concluding with a blast of the Shofar/Ram’s horn and breaking the fast.

These services are limited to members of Temple Israel and special guests. Anyone who wishes to attend must arrange with the rabbi.

Rabbi Moshe Elbaz and the Board of Directors wish the entire community a most joyous New Year.

For additional information about membership, tickets and the High Holy Days schedule please visit www.valdostatempleisrael.org or call Temple Israel/ contact Elbaz at (229) 244-1813.