The conclusion of the series of Tishrei holidays is marked by two consecutive holidays – Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. Shemini Atzeret is like a continuation of the Sukkot days but, at the same time, a completely separate holiday, while Simchat Torah is perhaps the happiest day of the Jewish calendar, fully living up to its name “Joy of the Torah.”
A distinctive feature of both holidays, observed this year from the evening of Monday, October 13th, to the evening of Wednesday, October 15th, are the Hakafot – dances with the Torah Scrolls. Participating in the Hakafot is a great honor, merit, and blessing.
On Shemini Atzeret, “Yizkor” – the memorial prayer for deceased relatives – is recited. This prayer is said in synagogues only four times a year!
On Simchat Torah, synagogues complete the annual cycle of Torah reading and begin it anew. The Shabbat following it is named after the first word of the Torah – Shabbat “Bereshit.”
Come and participate in the holidays!
Prayer and Dance Schedule for Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah at the Central “Golden Rose” Synagogue:
Monday, October 13, Hoshana Rabbah, Erev Shemini Atzeret
Candle lighting for the holiday – 5:37 PM
Mincha – 5:40 PM
Maariv – 6:25 PM
Kiddush in the synagogue sukkah – 6:40 PM
HAKAFOT – 7:30 PM
Tuesday, October 14 – Shemini Atzeret
Shacharit – 10:00 AM
Yizkor – 11:30 AM
Kiddush in the synagogue sukkah – 12:15 PM
Mincha – 5:40 PM
Maariv – 6:25 PM
Candle lighting from an existing flame – after 6:31 PM
Kiddush in the synagogue hall – 6:40 PM
HAKAFOT – 7:30 PM
Wednesday, October 15, Simchat Torah
Shacharit – 10:00 AM
Kiddush in the synagogue hall – 10:40 AM
HAKAFOT – 11:30 AM
Mincha – 5:35 PM
Maariv / Holiday ends – 6:29 PM
