How Are You Celebrating Yom Kippur 2012?

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.

In Tampa, there will be a Kol Nidre Family Service at Rodeph Sholom, 2713 Bayshore Blvd., on Sept. 25 at 6:30 p.m. This interactive service is geared for families and young children to participate together and allows children to gain an understanding of the service, prayers and songs of Kol Nidre. It will be led by Rob Schwartzbert, Laurin Jacobson and Judy Van Der Stelt. It is open to the community and no reservations or tickets are necessary.

Where and how are you celebrating in Temple Terrace? Tell us in the comments.

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.