High Holy Days 2020

Friends,

Judaism’s gift to the world is hope – a vision and unwavering commitment to create a perfect world enveloped in shalom, in peace and wholeness. For over 2000 years, Jews have overcome remarkable challenges because we always remain optimistic. This year will be no different, even though nothing is the same as it was. As we face continued risk from COVID and in consultation with our ritual committee and Board of Trustees, we have made the difficult decision to hold High Holy Day services online. While we will miss being physically together, and even though we face many challenges, when we gather together as a community we can find optimism in the traditions that have supported our people generation after generation.

As the prophet Isaiah pleads “Comfort, comfort my people. (40:1)” This High Holy Days we will find comfort in the glowing faces of our community, in the familiar melodies chanted by Cantor Giglio, and in the words that have brought hope to Jews for millennia. The sound of the shofar will still resonate within us and fill us with hope.

You can access all of our services this year online at cmihamden.org/hhd. Please note that all Zoom services are password protected. The password is found in the bulletin and dedicated High Holy Day emails. If you do not have the password, please contact the CMI office. Even though we won't be in the pews, our presence will still be tangible. Our services will be interactive, offering elective opportunities to reflect on the liturgy and theme of the holidays with other community members. Alternatively, you can join us for a viewing-only experience on our livestream with no password required: cmihamden.org/livestream.

The year 5781 is going to be a year of hope – a Shnat Tikvah. On the High Holy Days, as a sacred community, we will re-commit to improving ourselves and our world, as we have done every other Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Thank you for being a vital part of our community and know that your presence and participation, even virtually, creates a warm and joyous experience for all.

L’shanah Tova u’metukah u’vetikvah,

Wishing you a happy, sweet, and hopeful new year,

Rabbi Brian P. Immerman