As the sun begins to set on Yom Kippur, we gather for the final chapter in our journey of teshuvah—often translated as “return.” Through prayer, the timeless story of Jonah, the moving service of Ne’ilah, Havdalah, and the final blast of the shofar, we prepare to carry the lessons of this sacred day into the year ahead.

What Makes This Journey Special

Minchah
Our afternoon begins with Minchah, the traditional afternoon prayer service, inviting us once again into prayer, reflection, and return.

The Book of Jonah
We hear the biblical story of Jonah—a story of running, returning, forgiveness, and second chances. Read each Yom Kippur, Jonah reminds us that transformation is always possible and that compassion often extends farther than we imagine.

Ne’ilah Awards (Tentatively at 6pm)
As part of our Ne’ilah service, we recognize a longtime member of the Ohavi Zedek community whose dedication and service have made a lasting impact on congregational life. This annual tradition celebrates the people whose commitment helps our community thrive.

Ne’ilah – The Closing Service
As sunset approaches, we gather for Ne’ilah (“closing”), the final and most emotionally powerful service of Yom Kippur. Jewish tradition imagines the gates of this sacred day slowly closing as we offer one last opportunity for prayer, reflection, and return.

Havdalah, Community Shofar Wave and the Final Shofar
We conclude Yom Kippur with Havdalah, a beautiful ceremony that marks the transition from the holiness of the day back into everyday life. Together we’ll bless the wine and prepare for one final, unforgettable moment.

This year, we invite everyone who knows how to blow a shofar to bring their own and take part in our Community Shofar Wave. Shofar blowers will line the sanctuary from back to front, creating a wave of sound that moves through the congregation before culminating in the final tekiah gedolah (long blast). Whether you’re holding a shofar or simply listening, this powerful moment reminds us that each of us has a voice, and together we create something far greater than any one of us could alone.

Following the final shofar, we will officially conclude the fast after the appearance of three stars in the evening sky—a traditional sign that Yom Kippur has come to a close. Our clergy and volunteers will watch for the stars, and we anticipate concluding the service and beginning our Community Break-the-Fast at approximately 7:35 p.m., though the exact timing follows this longstanding Jewish tradition.

During the afternoon service before Ne’ilah, there will be an opportunity for congregants to come forward to the Ark for a meaningful personal moment of reflection and prayer with the Torah scrolls.

Children & Families
Children are warmly invited to participate in the Torah Processional and sharing in carrying one of our plush Torahs. If your child would like to join the procession, we’d be delighted to include them. No sign up is necessary. Just arrive at and line up in the preschool hallway at 5:45 PM.

Fasting
Yom Kippur is traditionally observed as a fast day. Learn more about fasting and other Yom Kippur customs on our What to Expect page.

How to Attend:
High Holiday services are open to everyone. Services are free for Ohavi Zedek members, young adults under 30, and children. Tickets are required for other adult guests. Please register in advance. Everyone who registers will receive a confirmation email with access to our digital Machzor (High Holiday prayer book) and, where available, a link to our livestream.

Immediately following Havdalah, everyone is warmly invited to continue the evening at our Community Break-the-Fast, beginning at approximately 7:35 p.m. (See the separate event listing.)

New Here? Whether it’s your first High Holiday or your first visit to Ohavi Zedek, our What to Expect guide will help you feel at home.