This Jewish New Year will be marked with a renewed sense of connection as we slowly make our way back to in-person services and events.
We welcome members, guests and visitors to join us either via Zoom for many of our services, or in-person for a full schedule of highly interactive services and programs, delivered with our usual mix of spirit, good humor, thoughtful intention, and joyous music.
Each gathering, whether you choose to join virtually or in-person, will incorporate opportunities for authentic connection and conversation, and a range of ways for you to engage head and heart.
As we do every year, we welcome you as you are, whoever you are, and wherever you are.
Non-members and associate members of OrH are welcome to join us for the High Holy Days and throughout the month of Tishrey.
2023 High Holy Days Schedule
Zoom login information will be sent automatically to all current full and student members of Or Haneshamah and all registered visitors and guests several days prior to Rosh Hashanah. If you do not receive a message, please contact us!
Please note that some events are subject to change.
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 9 SELICHOT SERVICE - STARTING THE SORRY
TBD WORSHIP HALL @30 CLEARY AND via ZOOM
Join with four other Reconstructionist communities for Selichot, in person or via Zoom, for a meaningful gathering of rituals and reflection as we prepare ourselves – and our sacred scrolls – for the days of awe.
Following havdallah, we'll move through reflections in preparation for the Days of Awe. During the brief service highlighting the music and themes of Yom Kippur, each congregation will change their Torah mantles and ark curtains. We conclude with the sounding of the shofar.
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 15 EREV ROSH HASHANAH
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm FELLOWSHIP HALL @30 CLEARY
We greet 5784 on the eve of New Year together with a brief service of singing, inspirational messages, and the sweet taste of apples and honey.
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 16 ROSH HASHANAH DAY 1
9:30 AM – 12:30 pm WORSHIP HALL @30 CLEARY + via ZOOM
The first day of Rosh Hashanah begins with a service of song, prayer, and ritual led by Rabbi Liz along with members of the community. A highlight again this year will be three member reflections on the holy day themes. There will be machaneh/camp-inspired activities for school-age children, babysitting for toddlers, the shofar blasts, and the return of our beloved pot-luck kiddush.
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm TASHLICH @BRANTWOOD PARK
Join in a meaningful tashlich, the ritual casting away of the crumbs of our wrongdoings into the moving waters, down by the (Rideau) riverside.
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 17 ROSH HASHANAH DAY 2
10:00 am – noon ROOM 5 @30 CLEARY
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 24 EREV YOM KIPPUR
6:00 pm-9:00 pm WORSHIP HALL @30 CLEARY + via ZOOM
The evening of Yom Kippur begins with the lighting of Memorial candles (come early if you would like to light one) followed by the haunting melody of Kol Nidre. Some of us wear white garments and tallitot/prayer shawls, while (only) those who are able begin their fast from life-sustaining food and drink. (Please note that we begin Kol Nidre service promptly with an instrumental rendition).
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 25 YOM KIPPUR
9:30 am-1:30 pm WORSHIP HALL @30 CLEARY + via ZOOM
The morning of Yom Kippur continues the awe-filled themes of communal repentance and personal reflection through prayer, readings, song, the chanting of Torah, and the deep bowing of the Grand Aleynu. Babysitting for toddlers throughout the morning and a program for school-age children will be available.
4:30 pm-7:30 pm WORSHIP HALL @30 CLEARY + via ZOOM
We reconvene for the afternoon Minhah Service, with the story of Jonah along with our alternative Torah reading. Our participatory Avodah component features a member reflection on a challenging issue or concept in our tradition, with the opportunity to respond. The Yizkor service follows at around 6:00 pm, as we honour the memories of our dear departed. Finally, Neilah beckons us, through song and silence, before the open ark or at our seats, towards the final great blast of the shofar, and the conclusion of our full day with havdalah. We share a communal potluck break-fast meal immediately following. Please sign up to bring a dish here.
After the High Holy Days the fall festival season conclude with:
SHABBAT SUKKOT – Saturday morning October 7
9:30 am – noon in Room 5 and outdoors @30 Cleary
Song, prayer and rituals in the Sukkah – a gathering for all ages
High Holy Days Resources
Download a copy of Kol Haneshamah: Prayerbook for the Days of Awe High Holy Day Machzor by clicking on the book below!
