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Space limitations at Temple B'nai Chaim in Georgetown have prompted Rabbi Leah Cohen to hold Yom Kippur services at Wilton High School instead. The holiday celebration starts Friday at sunset and continues until Saturday evening. More than 1,000 temple members from Wilton, Weston and neighboring towns are expected to attend.
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiday that is focused on the individual, the rabbi said, even though many people are present.
"It's a communal effort because we are all together, but what is really happening is the individual working through what their transgressions were and what kind of amends they have to make," she said.
Yom Kippur is recognized as the holiest day of the Jewish year and Cohen plan many events during the 25 hour celebration, including five sermons, music and of course, the blowing of the shofar.
"Basically people will have the chance to think, pray and reflect about what in their life they want to change," Cohen said.
Sins being atoned for are between the individual and God, not between individuals. For them to be atoned, reconciliation must be made before the holiday.
The holiday is a complete Sabbath, which means congregants cannot work and must fast throughout the holiday. Those in poor health, children under 13 and women who are pregnant or have recently given birth are exempt.
Cohen said a breakfast will be served following sunset Saturday and people will get to hang out and chat.
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