Second Day Rosh Hashanah
Second Day of Rosh Hashanah? Why? 
Rosh Hashanah coincides with the new moon. In biblical times it was difficult to know ahead of time when exactly the new moon would fall, so Rosh Hashanah was observed for two days to ensure that one of those days would fall on the new moon. We continue that tradition today.
Why come on the second day? The service itself on the second day of Rosh Hashana is very similar to the first day. However, many fewer people attend and therefore there is a much more intimate feeling, there is no choir and instead of a sermon there is a group discussion. There is no rushing to get a seat, it feels much more relaxed and (some might say) conducive to prayer and introspection. Afterwards there is a potluck lunch which helps create and nurture connection among the participants.
Sat, December 21 2024 20 Kislev 5785