Observing Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah 2012 Near Richfield

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.

Local Worship

One of the closest temple to Richfield is Temple Israel at 2324 Emerson Ave. S. in Minneapolis. Sept. 25 services are at 4:45 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. in the sanctuary, with options for both adults and kids 8 years of age and older.

If you aren't part of the Jewish religion, or if you are and can't make it out, the temple is live streaming its Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah services on the Internet. To view the services, go to templeisrael.com/livestream. This is the first time live streaming is being offered and those with issues should call 612-377-8680. The live stream is not compatible with iPads, iPhones or Android devices.

Other area temples include:

Shir Tikvah

Location: 1360 W. Minnehaha Pkwy. Minneapolis, MN 55419

Phone: 612-822-1440

Website: shirtikvah.net

Adath Jeshurun Congregation

Location: 10500 Hillside Ln. W. Minnetonka, MN 55305

Phone: 952-545-2424

Website: adathjeshurun.org

Observing

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 and 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.

If you know of other temples in the area and worship times, please add the information in the comments section below.