Wakefield, MA — Standing just one day away from Yom Kippur, one of the holiest days on the Jewish calendar, there are still many Jews who have no plans to attend synagogue services.
Some of these Jews are not affiliated with a synagogue; others will be travelling on business; and a sizable percentage simply don’t feel comfortable in a synagogue setting. Another alarming issue, particularly in light of today’s flailing economy, is that many cannot afford the cost of services, which these days can run a whopping thousand dollars or more for a family of five.
Whatever the case is, many of these would-be worshippers are feeling the pangs associated with being left out of the holiest days of the Jewish calendar. Chabad of Wakefield, the local branch of the largest Jewish outreach organization in the world, has presented its own High Holiday services option for Yom Kippur services in a warm and inclusive setting.
Chabad’s services are “user-friendly,” making it enjoyable and meaningful for both the beginner and the advanced. Song, commentary and the use of English-Hebrew prayerbooks, enable those of all levels to become active participants in the services.
“According to Jewish tradition, on the Jewish New Year, the doors of Heaven are open. G-d accepts prayers from everyone,” said Rabbi Sruly Brook, who is hosting services in Wakefield. “The least we can do is open our doors as well, to the entire community.”
Rabbi Sruly continued, “At Chabad Judaism is accessible to all Jews. During the Jewish High Holidays, accessibility can translate into different factors for different people, such as a non-judgmental atmosphere, affordability of the services, or the ability for a beginner to follow along. Our goal is to lower the barriers of entry, and encourage each and every Jew to actively participate in these most holy and introspective days.”
Yom Kippur begins this year after sundown on October 11 and extends until nightfall on October 12.
Chabad of Wakefield will be holding Yom Kippur services this year.
WHERE: Lakside Inn 595 North Ave. Wakefield MA 01880
WHEN: October 11 6:00 PM will be Kol Nidrei. October 12 9:30 AM will be morning Services followed by Yizkor at 11:00 AM. Closing Neila Service followed by Breakfast will be at 5:45 PM
TO RESERVE A SPACE: Register online at JewishWakefield.com/YomKippur or call Chabad’s office781.205.9593 or Email Rabbi@JewishWakefield.com
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