HERJC provides complete observance of the entire Jewish calendar, including the High Holidays and the three festivals (Shalosh Regalim) of Sukkot, Pesach, and Shavuot. Chanukah, Purim, Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independence Day), Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day),Tu B’Shevat (New Year for Trees), Tisha B’Av (the Ninth of Av) and each Rosh Chodesh (New Month) are fully celebrated.
We do not celebrate halfway. On Erev Simchat Torah, the congregation sings, dances, and parades Torahs around our building. To usher in Shavuot, we study (and eat cheesecake) late into the night at our annual Tikkun Layl Shavuot. Our annual Chanukah party features lively entertainment, and our Purim festivities include a festive Megillah reading, costume parades, and a wonderful carnival with prizes for all the kids.
Yizkor, a special memorial prayer for the departed, is recited in the synagogue four times a year, following the Torah reading on the last day of Passover, on the second day of Shavuot, on Shemini Atzeret (the day after Sukkot ends), and on Yom Kippur.
There are no reserved seats in our sanctuary. Where you sit during any service depends on when you arrive (early or later), and on your personal preference once you are in the sanctuary itself.
