As summer begins to wind down, the Jewish calendar invites us into a different kind of season—one of reflection, renewal, and hope. In our Jewish tradition, Selichot (“forgiveness,” in Hebrew) marks the beginning of that journey, and offers us a meaningful opportunity to prepare our hearts and minds for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

The Selichot service is centered around beautiful prayers that encourage us to reflect on the past year, celebrate personal growth, and consider where we’d like to do better in the year ahead. Selichot reminds us that every new year offers the chance to begin again—with intention, compassion, and purpose.

At Congregation Shomrei Emunah, we believe preparing for the High Holy Days should be meaningful, inspiring, and joyful. That’s why we invite you to join us on Saturday, September 5 from 6:30-9:30pm, for an evening that blends tradition, music, community, and celebration.

Starting at 6:30pm, families with young children, under the age of 8, can be dropped off at babysitting where children will have an early dinner, enjoy free play, and take part in a Selichot inspired craft.

The rest of the program is as follows, and please make sure to RSVP for this event: https://shomrei.easyshul.com/events/6a610b442512eb0026d4873b

6:30pm: Dinner and activities for children under the age of 7 (optional)

7-8pm: Dinner for older children (8+) and adults

8-9pm: Havdalah ceremony and Zamru-style Selichot service

9-9:30pm: Jazz band performance and unique dessert table

We’ll begin with a delicious vegetarian dinner, followed by Havdalah as we say goodbye to Shabbat and welcome the new week together. From there, we’ll experience a Zamru-style Selichot service—filled celebratory prayer and music, and pauses for moments of personal reflection. We’ll conclude the evening with a lively jazz performance and a delicious dessert table, because preparing for the new year is even better when shared with friends over great food and music.

Come as you are, bring a friend, and discover why Selichot is such a meaningful—and uplifting—way to begin the High Holy Day season.

We look forward to welcoming you on September 5 as we begin this special journey together.

Sarvenaz Singh and The Selichot Committee