Observe Yom Kippur 2012 in Gloucester County

Yom Kippur is, in short, the holiest day of the year in Jewish religion and culture. It is also referred to as the “Day of Atonement,” and the tradition is to solemnly fast for repentance and atonement of sins.

Yom Kippur marks the end of the annual High Holy Day period (Sept. 16-26 in 2012), which begins with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. On Sept. 25, Yom Kippur observation will begin at sunset.

Kol Nidre services are being held at several local temples and synagogues (call first; tickets or reservations may be required) Tuesday evening:

Chabad of Gloucester County, Mullica Hill: 

Yom Kippur Eve: Tuesday, Sept. 25, 6:30 p.m. (children's program during evening service)
Yom Kippur Day: Wednesday, Sept. 26, 10 a.m. morning service, children's program 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Yizkor service remembering loved ones at noon, afternoon service at 5 p.m., Neilah closing service at 6 p.m. Children's program during Neilah.  

Congregation B'nai Tikvah-Beth Israel, Sewell:

Yom Kippur Evening: Tuesday, Sept. 25, 6:15 p.m.
Yom Kippur Day: Wednesday, Sept. 26, services begin at 9 a.m. Yizkor begins at 12:15 p.m. Tot and youth services from 10 a.m. to noon. Community Yizkor service at 5 p.m. Mincha/Neilah service from 5:30 to 7:35 p.m. Shofar blowing at 7:35 p.m.

Yom Kippur falls annually on the 10th day of Tishrei, a month on the Hebrew calendar, which is nine days after the first day of Rosh Hashanah.

To observe Yom Kippur, one should eat and drink festively the day before—once early in the day and once later, before Kol Nidrei synagogue services. Then, for almost 25 hours, the day is spent in the synagogue without eating, drinking and other restrictions.

To observe the High Holy Days and holiday period before Kol Nidrei and after the Yom Kippur fast, many Jewish specialties are made. But there are a few staples that usually make their way onto the table. Try a honey cake or noodle kugel.

Did we miss your place of worship for Yom Kippur? Post the service times and location in the comments section.