25/26 September 2020, 7/8 Tishrei 5781

Yom Kippur this year will be hard for many of us, staying at home, fasting perhaps alone, without the throngs of folk and even the occasional irritation with the person seated next to us. All of this we will miss. Be easy with yourselves as you anticipate the day and what it might hold for you. Perhaps prepare to be disappointed or frustrated then one can only be pleasantly surprised.

Our services will be shorter, and there will much to peruse or visit across the LJ community in that early afternoon slot. We wanted to offer as much virtual inspiration as possible, so  have asked four folk ahead of Yom Kippur to share their thoughts on the Torah reading that day. Netzavim talks of community; who is included, and what our Judaism might be.

We’re so excited to tell you about our new FPS Podcast. Rabbi Rebecca discusses thoughts and ideas from our Emeritus Rabbi, Frank Hellner,  Sheila King Lassman, our Life President, Richard Greene leading our Building Group and our new Chair Tamara Joseph. Together they offer new insights into being a Jew and meeting Yom Kippur. Look out for the first episode coming on facebook and twitter in the next few days.

We’re also delighted to announce our Kallat Bereshit and Chatan Torah for this memorable Simchat Torah. Valerie Joseph has chaired our Beit Tefillah Services Committee and Dean Staker, as we know, makes our services. Both have done much during the past six months to hold services, prayer and community together, both behind the Bimah and on it. Very much looking forward.

Gmar Chatimah Tovah. A good fast, a good day and a good finish.

Rabbi Rebecca

Please do donate the equivalent of your Yom Kippur meals to Foodbank Aid. You can drop bags off at 36 Millfield Lane, Highgate N6 6JB.