Slichot Saturday, August 31 at 8 pm
T'shuvah, the act of "turning" or transformation, is a spiritual process that takes time, patience, discipline, and honesty. The Jewish tradition recognizes this by designating the month preceding the High Holy Days (the month of Elul) as preparation for T'shuvah. It's a time to talk less and think more, to take stock and examine oneself. In Hebrew this process is called cheshbon hanefesh, literally, the "accounting of the soul." Only when emotional and psychological preparation has been done, can we truly begin the process of "turning" back to the Divine and back to our true selves.
In synagogues special penitential prayers called Slichot are recited during Elul. On Saturday, August 31 at 8:30 pm we will hold our annual Slichot service. Rosh Hashanah will be less than a week away.
Starting with the recitation of the Slichot prayers we begin asking ourselves great questions: "Where am I? Who am I? What are my regrets? Can repairs be made? What changes do I need to make?"
This is the beginning of our Holy season. As we unite in prayer, we strengthen ourselves for the spiritual work ahead of us. As T'shuvah gathers force within us, we are propelled toward the Days of Awe, confronting not only who we have been, but also who we might yet become.
Our Slichot prayers also contain a special Healing Service in which we pray for ourselves, our loved ones, and all who are struggling with illness.
Cantor Judy Merrick will be joining us and this is a wonderful opportunity to meet her.
Shannah tova tikuteyvu
Rabbi Arthur
PS. Everyone is invited to bring refreshments.
