What to Expect

Whether you have celebrated the High Holidays your entire life, are returning after many years, or are simply curious about Jewish tradition, we are honored you are considering spending this season with us.

You do not need to know Hebrew, understand every tradition, or have previous experience to participate. We will help guide you through the service and invite you to engage at your own pace.

Your first visit

You are welcome exactly as you are.

No one is expected to know every prayer or custom. Some people pray every word; others sing, listen, reflect quietly, or simply take in the experience.

It is completely normal to wonder:

What should I wear?
Will I know what to do?
Can I come if I am not Jewish?
What if I have children?
Will I be expected to participate?

Participating in worship

There is no single “right way.”

The High Holidays are not a performance. They are an invitation to join a community that has gathered in these ways for generations.

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Listen & reflect

Take in the music, a sermon, quiet reflection, or the experience of being together.

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Sing & follow along

Join in singing or follow the service in the Machzor, the High Holiday prayer book.

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Join when invited

Stand or sit with the congregation and participate in rituals when you feel comfortable.

Children & families

Children belong at the heart of Jewish life.

Children are always welcome in our sanctuary. Little voices, curious questions, laughter, and joyful energy are all part of community life.

Families will find

Family Experiences during many services
Children’s snacks during longer morning services
Plush Torahs during Kol Nidre and Simchat Torah
Interactive programming throughout the holidays
Comfortable spaces to participate together

Accessibility & support

We want everyone to participate fully.

Please let an usher or staff member know how we can make your experience more comfortable, accessible, or meaningful.

Hearing & reading

Assistive listening devices, large-print Machzorim, magnifiers, and focus or fidget tools are available.

Building access

Accessible parking, entrances, restrooms, preferred seating, an all-gender restroom, and changing tables are available.

Family & food support

Books, toys, livestreamed seating, highchairs, and food options for allergies or dietary sensitivities are available.

Plan your visit

Helpful details before you arrive.

Parking & arrival

Accessible parking is close to the synagogue entrance. Additional parking is available on the lawn next door at Fern Hill and along Archibald Street.

Many people arrive 15–20 minutes early, but you will be warmly welcomed whenever you arrive.

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Security

Professional security personnel will be present throughout the High Holidays, helping preserve both a secure environment and a warm atmosphere.

Fasting on Yom Kippur

Many adults fast, but preserving life and health takes precedence. Anyone for whom fasting is unsafe or unhealthy is encouraged not to fast or to modify the fast.

Please care for yourself.

Need a hand at High Holidays?
Just ask a greeter, usher, clergy member, staff member, or anyone wearing a name tag.

Dress & worship traditions

Comfortable, respectful, and present.

There is no required dress code. Many people choose business casual or festive attire, while others dress more simply.

Dress

Modest clothing is customary. On Yom Kippur, some people wear white or avoid leather shoes as meaningful traditions, not expectations.

Kippot

Everyone is invited to wear a kippah as a sign of respect and participation. Kippot are available at sanctuary entrances.

Tallit

Many Jewish adults and teens wear a tallit during morning services. Tallitot are available for those who wish to wear one.

Phones & photography

Please silence your phone and refrain from taking photos or videos during services.

Entering & leaving

You may enter or leave whenever needed. Please use the rear doors during especially meaningful moments, including Torah or Haftarah reading, the sermon, Yizkor, or while the congregation is standing.

Common Jewish words

A small glossary.

Machzor

The High Holiday prayer book.

Shofar

A ram’s horn sounded on Rosh Hashanah and at the conclusion of Yom Kippur.

Teshuvah

Often translated as “return”; the spiritual practice of reflection, repair, and returning to our best selves.

Tashlikh

A symbolic ritual of casting away the burdens of the past year.

Sukkah

The temporary outdoor shelter where we gather during Sukkot.

Lulav & Etrog

The traditional plants used during Sukkot celebrations.

Need help?

Questions before the High Holidays?

Whether you are wondering which service is right for you, need accessibility support, or have questions about tickets or parking, we would love to hear from you.

Call (802) 864-0218 Contact the office