Shabbat Shuvah: The Shabbath of Return

The Sabbath of Repentance takes its name from the special Haftarah portion, “Turn Back O Israel,” which calls upon the Jewish people to turn away from wrongdoing and return to their ancient loyalty and devotion. At Congregation Shir Hadash we provide two very different services with which to connect at this special time.

On Friday evening we will have a formal service in the sanctuary with the special High Holy melodies that are appropriate for this season. Several Temple members who have been involved with the Shir Hadash Organizing Committee this year will speak about the spiritual aspects of this experience.

A special honeycake oneg will follow the service.

Saturday morning September 11th services will be held at Vasona Park in the Circle group area. With guitar and spirited singing we will celebrate Shabbat in the beauty of nature. After about 30 minutes of this informal service, the younger children will be invited on an exploration, while adult members of the congregation participate in a study of the special Prophetic portion for this Shabbat. The children will rejoin us for a story, the concluding songs of the service, and a walk to the water’s edge to “cast our sins into the depths”.

Following the Tashlich (casting off) ceremony, we will all join together in a brunch under the shade canopies.

Make your reservations with Nadine in the office, (408) 358 1751 x5 or nadine@shirhadash.org, and receive your food assignment for the potluck.

Bring beach chairs and blankets for more comfortable sitting.