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Rosh Hashanah
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The Jewish year begins in the Autumn, with Rosh Hashanah (literally 'Head of the Year'). It is
both a solemn and a happy festival.
According to tradition, the world was created on Rosh Hashanah. On Rosh Hashanah,
God judges each person for their deeds during the previous year and decides what their
circumstances will be in the coming year. The judgements are recorded in the Book of Life.
On Yom Kippur the Book is closed and the decrees made by God are sealed.
The shofar (a ram's horn) is sounded during the service - a hundred notes in all, in different
rhythms. The shofar calls us to the task of repentance.
The ten days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are known as the 'Days of Repentance' or the 'Days of Awe'.
It is a time to reflect and examine our consciences. We should think about how we have transgressed
against our fellow human beings and against God, we should ask forgiveness and atone for our sins.
The ark and the Torah scrolls are dressed in white to remind us to seek integrity and purity in all that we do and say.
The service ends with the eating of apples and honey (and rather sweet sticky kisses for our friends and relatives)
and we pray, "May it be your will, the Eternal our God, that we may be renewed for a good and a sweet New Year."
At NWSS there are activities to help us prepare for, and benefit from, these
important and awesome days.
- There are classes and discussion groups in the weeks before Rosh Hashanah.
- Selichot service (Prayers of Repentance) is held on the Saturday before Rosh Hashanah, late
after Shabbat has ended. This service contains some of the most beautiful music of the
year and is a little known jewel in the liturgical calendar. Before the Selichot service
we gather to learn, discuss and drink some hot home-made soup. (NWSS prides itself on its food!)
- On Rosh Hashanah there are activities and services for all the family - including babies, toddlers,
children and young people.
- Members are invited to make charitable donations to our High Holiday appeal when we can give
to needy causes (Jewish and non-Jewish charities) as a community.
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Festival dates
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