The Power of Gathering for the Holidays

children doing tashlich

The High Holidays call for a lot of introspection, a lot of time thinking to yourself or praying silently. We reflect on the past year and hope for a better year and fewer mistakes ahead.  Why then do we gather as a community to mark them?

There are many reasons, but one of the most compelling, to me, is the power of gathering for communal prayer and support.  One year ago, when the community gathered to mourn after the Tree of Life shooting, one of the most awe-inspiring moments was when leaders from many different religions gathered on the bimah (pulpit) for a prayer.  Seeing so many come together for a common cause gave me much hope for a better future.

The same thing happens during the services at Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  For example, doing tashlich (“casting off,” the ritual of throwing breadcrumbs into a moving body of water) is a private, personal thing, and we don’t always like to admit that we are less than perfect in public.  However, committing to a change out loud to someone we trust increases the likelihood that change will happen.  There’s accountability but also support.  Your friend or family member may say, “me, too!”  And then you can be there for each other.  There is power in collective wisdom and in realizing there’s much experience to share and to absorb.  It’s the same effect as what happens when you tap into a community of support when seeking new parenting strategies or making a change for your health (e.g. changing your eating habits or undergoing treatment for an illness).

These are all things we need to do out loud and together, not just in the quiet of our own minds (though we need time for that, too).  I hope you will join the community to celebrate these holidays with your family.  If you are looking for ideas, we have a number of them on our Jconnect page.  Don’t just limit yourself to the Chagim (high holy days) but also consider making it your new year’s resolution to join the community at programs and services throughout the year.  We keep a list at Jconnect.org/PJLibrary.

Shanah Tovah (to a good, sweet new year),
Sarah

More Resources:

Explaining Tashlich to Kids | PJ Library

A Bread-Free Tashlich for Kids | PJ Library

Tashlich for Kids: Make a “Letting Go” Collage | PJ Library

Local Rosh Hashanah Services and Programs | Jconnect

Local Yom Kippur Services and Programs | Jconnect

Local Sukkot Services and Programs | Jconnect

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By Sarah Rabin Spira, Manager, PJ Library, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

Originally published October 2019

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