Observe Yom Kippur 2012 in Warren

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.

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.

Local Kol Nidrei services will be held at the Chabad Jewish Center of Somerset County at 6 p.m., and at Temple Har Shalom will host at 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday's schedule for services at Temple Har Shalom include services at 9 a.m. and 12:15 p.m., a musical meditation at 3 p.m.; 4 p.m. Yizkor and Neilah afternoon service; and a Shofar Chorus and Break-fast Nosh at 6:30 p.m.

At the Chabad, services will be held at 9:30 a.m., with youth services at 10:30 a.m. Yizkor is at 12:30 p.m., and Break-the-Fast at 7:29 p.m.

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, noodle kugel or brisket.