In the face of mounting problems throughout the world and here at home, our motto for over a century — far a shenere, besere velt (for a better, more beautiful world) — continues to inspire us as we head toward the New Year Festival of the fanciful date 5775 in the Hebrew calendar. Please mark your calendar (Hebrew or general) and plan to attend these spiritually enriching events:
Rosheshone (Rosh Hashana)
Sept. 25, 11:00 AM
Rancho Park-Cheviot Hills, Motor Ave., one block south of Pico.
We join the Sholem Community in a program of songs, readings and shoyfer (ram’s horn) blasts, as well as the folk-custom of partaking of apples and khale dipped in honey to presage a sweet New Year. The reading of Y. L. Perets’ classic story (in English), “If Not Still Higher,” is a traditional inspiration for all ages. Bring a picnic lunch for your family and dessert to share. The event is at Picnic Area #1, behind the swimming pool.
Kolnidre
Friday Oct. 3, 7:00 PM
Professional Musicians’ Union Hall
The outstanding event of the year for L.A.’s progressive Secular Jewish community and intercultural families. Informed by tradition, in instrumental and choral music and in spoken word, we reflect on our lives and the state of the world through a humanistic prism. SoCal AR/WC co-sponsors this moving and meaningful observance with the Sholem Community.
For complete details and to order tickets, go to www.sholem.org/Kol_Nidre_2014.html
Yonkiper (Yom Kippur)
Saturday, Oct. 4, 2:00 PM
AR/WC Center, 1525 S. Robertson Blvd.
In song and readings prepared by Eric Gordon, our now-retired Exec. Dir., members and friends share in reflections on the year past and the one to come. This annual gathering of the SoCal AR/WC family is a truly spiritual experience, culminating the events of the previous ten days.
Sukis (Sukkot)
Sunday, Oct. 12, 11:00 AM
Westside Neighborhood School, 5401 Beethoven St., Marina del Rey
Join the children and parents of the Sholem Sunday School under its suke in the fall harvest celebration that concludes the Jewish New Year Festival, celebrating food justice and sustainability while honoring immigrants from everywhere both past and present.