Get Prepared: A Month of Awakening The Soul
During the month of Elul, which precedes the High Holy Days, it is traditional to prepare one’s heart and soul for Teshuvah—repentance. Join your Temple Beth Sholom clergy for a reflective and heartfelt study of the High Holy Day Haftarot—powerful selections from the Prophets which offer stirring messages of renewal and divine compassion, helping to shape the spiritual journey of this sacred season.
In-Person at TBS and on Zoom | Registration: email Noemi
Monday, September 8, at 12:00 pm
Pouring Out the Soul: The Power of Raw Devotion: Samuel 1:1–2:10
Haftarah for Rosh HaShanah Day 1 with Cantor Juval Porat
Hannah models a form of prayer that is raw, personal, and unrestrained—so much so that even the priest Eli mistakes her for being drunk. What does her story teach us about how we approach prayer during the Days of Awe? This class invites us to reflect on the courage it takes to pray with full presence and emotion, and how Hannah’s example can inspire us to cry our way through the gates of heaven. Bring your own lunch.
Wednesday, September 10, at 7:00 pm
God’s Enduring Love: Jeremiah 31:2–20
Haftarah for Rosh Hashanah Day 2 with Rabbi Jessica Jacobs
Jeremiah speaks of God’s enduring love and the promise of restoration, encouraging us to return with trust and hope. This Haftarah reassures us that renewal is always within reach.
Monday, September 15, at 7:00 pm
True Atonement Through Justice: Isaiah 58:1–14
Haftarah for Yom Kippur Morning with Rabbi Joanne Loiben
Isaiah challenges us to go beyond ritual fasting toward acts of justice, kindness, and humility. This reading reflects Yom Kippur’s deeper message of ethical renewal and sincere atonement.
Saturday, September 20, ~12:15 pm | following services
A Call to Return: Hosea 14:2–10
Haftarah for Shabbat Shuva with Rabbi Gary Glickstein
This Shabbat leads us into Rosh HaShana and the 10 Days of Repentance. During this final week of Elul, traditionally, we blow the shofar each day as a way to awaken us to the importance of this approaching time in the Hebrew calendar. We will prepare for the Jewish New Year by studying the words of the prophet Hosea associated with Shabbat Shuva. Lunch will be available.