Jewish New Year To Be Focus of Island Celebration

The High Holidays are important in the Jewish faith, and this year, the kehilla (congregation) and Aish HaTorah Detroit chapter are having services for Rosh Hashana at Grand Hotel. These major holidays are a time of reflection and introspection and time to connect with the fundamentals of Judaism. This year the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashana, is observed from sundown Wednesday, September 12, through Friday, September 14.

The religious programming for the holiday services has been developed by Aish to meet the needs of traditional orthodox services and more liberal worship.

Regular traditional services will be provided in Hebrew, conducted by an Orthodox rabbi, with separate seating and certified kosher food.

For Jews who have trouble connecting with the traditional services, a High Holiday Learner's Service will be offered in parallel.

"When was the last time you went to a service with over 300 people and were able to ask questions right in the middle of the service?" asks Rabbi Tolwin of Aish HaTorah. Aish has successfully modeled a High holiday program that is now offered in more than 50 U.S. cities for people who are curious about the faith, but who are not comfortable with orthodox services.

"The High holidays can be meaningful, enjoyable, and relevant," said Mr. Tolwin. "The Aish learners service is conducted in English and Hebrew. The parts that we are familiar with are done in Hebrew, usually to some great tune. Other parts are done in English. No matter what we are doing, there is always explanations and anyone can ask questions."

The Learning High Holiday program also offers breakout sessions throughout the day, he added.

For more information about the Rosh Hashanah program at Grand Hotel, contact Rabbi Simcha Towlin at (248) 327-3579.