Observe Yom Kippur 2012 in and Around Granby, East Granby

Yom Kippur is, in short, the holiest day of the year in Jewish religion and culture. It is also referred to as the “Day of Atonement,” and the tradition is to solemnly fast for repentance and atonement of sins.

Yom Kippur marks the end of the annual High Holy Day period (Sept. 16 to Sept. 26 in 2012), which begins with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. On Sept. 25, observation will begin at sunset.

Kol Nidre services are being held nearby in Windsor at Congregation Beth Ahm at 362 Palisado Ave. (Route 159) in Windsor. Granby-area Jews who are not affiliated with another synagogue or temple are invited to worship there during the High Holy Days. Attendees must call ahead for High Holy Days tickets, which are free, at 860-242-6542. Yom Kippur services follow on Wednesday.

Additionally, the Farmington Valley Jewish Congregation – Emek Shalom at 55 Bushy Hill Road, Simsbury is holding Kol Nidre services Tuesday evening. Please call first for tickets if you are not a congregation member (860-658-1705). Yom Kippur services follow on Wednesday.

Yom Kippur falls annually on the 10th day of Tishrei, a month on the Hebrew calendar, which is nine days after the first day of Rosh Hashanah.

To observe Yom Kippur, one should eat and drink festively the day before—once early in the day and once later, before Kol Nidrei synagogue services. Then, for almost 25 hours, the day is spent in the synagogue without eating, drinking among other restrictions.

To observe the High Holy Days and holiday period before Kol Nidrei and after the Yom Kippur fast, many Jewish specialties are made. But there are a few staples that usually make their way onto the table. Try a honey cake or noodle kugel.

Check back tomorrow for a Yom Kippur message posted by Rabbi Stacy Bergman of Temple Shaaray Tefila.