Yom Kippur at Sholom: A Time for Reflection, Tradition, and Community

Published On: October 1, 20252 min read

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the Jewish calendar and the culmination of the Ten Days of Repentance that begin with Rosh Hashanah. It is a sacred time to reflect, pray, and seek forgiveness, traditionally observed through fasting, worship, and quiet contemplation. Five important worship services mark the day: Kol Nidre on the eve of Yom Kippur, the Morning Service, Yizkor (memorial service), the Afternoon Service, and the concluding Neilah service.

This year, Yom Kippur begins at sunset on Wednesday, October 1, and concludes at nightfall on Thursday, October 2.

At Sholom, Yom Kippur is not only a time to uphold cherished Jewish traditions—it is also an opportunity for the entire community to reflect on universal themes of forgiveness, renewal, and hope. Whether you are Jewish or not, the day’s focus on compassion, healing, and self-reflection offers something meaningful to everyone.

  • A Festive Gathering
    On Yom Kippur Eve, residents and tenants will share in a special holiday meal. Dining rooms will be dressed with white tablecloths and candlelight to create a sacred and welcoming atmosphere. This meal provides a moment of togetherness before a day devoted to prayer and reflection.

  • Meaningful Services
    Services for Yom Kippur—including Kol Nidre, Morning Services, Yizkor (memorial), Minchah (afternoon), and Neilah (concluding)—will be held across our campuses. Residents, tenants, staff, and families are welcome to attend and experience the richness of Jewish tradition, whether through active participation or quiet presence.

  • Honoring Health and Wellbeing
    While fasting is customary, Jewish teaching reminds us that health always comes first. At Sholom, we encourage each person to honor their wellbeing, with our care teams supporting individual needs. Our Chai Wellness programs continue this focus—bringing balance to the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of life.

  • Shared Values, Shared Community
    Yom Kippur reminds us of the importance of forgiveness, connection, and renewal—values that transcend faith traditions. At Sholom, we see this holiday as an invitation to pause and reflect together, deepening our sense of community while respecting and celebrating diverse backgrounds.

As the shofar sounds at the close of Yom Kippur, we are reminded of the power of renewal and the strength of community.

We invite you to learn more about Sholom’s history, our commitment to Jewish traditions, and the ways our Spiritual Care and Wellness programs bring meaning and balance into daily life. Whether you observe Yom Kippur or are simply curious about its traditions, may this season bring peace, healing, and hope to all.

G’mar Chatimah Tovah—may you be sealed for a good year.