High Holidays at Bethesda Jewish Congregation
High Holidays at BJC are special and unique to our community, and we also observe religious traditions and adhere to customs. Throughout the services, our members write spiritually uplifting poems and readings that they share with the community. The BJC choir, which rehearses throughout the summer, leads the congregation in song and inspiration.
The High Holidays officially kick off as we gather for Erev Rosh Hashanah services to welcome the new year in prayer, song, and community. Together, we’ll reflect on the year that has passed, celebrate new beginnings, and embrace the possibilities of the year ahead. Our evening Rosh Hashanah service culminates with a joyous community oneg.
Services continue on Rosh Hashanah Morning, with continued music and reflections—plus a Torah service. After our morning service, we gather for a delicious lunch and Tashlich service right here at BJC. Tashlich is followed by a family service for all ages.
A special BJC tradition involves beginning Kol Nidre (Erev Yom Kippur) with candles on the bima. Several years ago, just as we were about to start our service, our community was enveloped in a blackout. We lit candles and used our cell phones…and thus a tradition was born. We continue to honor this custom in new ways.
Our Yom Kippur Morning services are followed by a family service for all ages, then a Yom Kippur discussion with the Rabbi, followed by lay-led musical opportunities. We conclude with Yizkor, a Memorial service, followed immediately by our concluding Ne’ilah service.