Congregation Beth Israel to Hold Family Service for Erev Rosh Hashanah

Congregation Beth Israel (CBI) in Scotch Plains will hold its annual family service on Erev Rosh Hashanah, Wednesday evening, October 2, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. This child-friendly service is free and open to the community. Registration is required at https://www.cbinj.org/event/erevrh5785#.

The one-hour service will usher in the Jewish New Year with songs, stories and prayers. Rabbi Howard Tilman and Cantor Jacob Greenberg will officiate.

“This special service is designed to be accessible and interesting to people of all backgrounds and experience levels, from kids to adults, so that everyone has the opportunity to celebrate the holiday,” said Rabbi Tilman. “Particularly in a year when we have felt the importance of Jewish community and finding occasions to celebrate, this is a great way to start the New Year.”

The community is also invited to attend CBI’s outdoor Shofar-blowing gatherings, which will provide opportunities to hear the sounds of the Shofar, the ancient horn traditionally blown during the Jewish High Holy Days. In preparation for Rosh Hashanah, CBI members will blow the Shofar in front of the synagogue building at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25 and Thursday, September 26. No registration is necessary.

Community members are also invited to participate in CBI’s ceremony of Tashlich (translated as “casting off sins”) on Thursday, October 3, at 5:00 p.m. in the synagogue’s side parking lot. This ancient ritual, performed on the first day of Rosh Hashanah, will help the community spiritually prepare for the upcoming new year. Registration is not required for Tashlich.

Congregation Beth Israel is an egalitarian Conservative synagogue, serving the religious, educational, cultural and social needs of congregants from Scotch Plains, Fanwood, Westfield and surrounding towns. It has an active Sisterhood, Men’s Club and youth group, plus a wide array of programs, ranging from adult education courses to social action opportunities.

Congregation Beth Israel has been recognized as an ABLE Awarded Congregation by the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest for its commitment to inclusion and accommodation for all its members and guests.

For questions or to request accommodations, contact the synagogue office at (908) 889-1830 or office@cbisp.org.

Congregation Beth Israel is located at 18 Shalom Way, Scotch Plains, NJ (corner of Martine Avenue).