In Jewish time, a new day begins in the evening, as darkness falls. So too, a new year begins in the fall. There is deep wisdom in this: before we can grow—toward a new dawn, a new spring—we first need to put down roots. We need to prepare to begin again.

Who do you want to be in 5787? How will you find yourself?

Part of finding ourselves is repotting ourselves into the nourishing soil of Jewish community. From the forgiveness prayers of Slichot through Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot—culminating in Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah—we deepen our roots. That is what enables us to grow into our best next selves. That is what renews our relationships and our spirits.

It’s easy to get lost in the many opportunities the Jewish calendar offers at this time of year. Below is the full list. If you’re wondering how to navigate it, here’s our advice: give yourself the gift of being part of the build. 

The Torah planned the month as a giant, building spiritual retreat – across the month, and within each service and holiday itself. Think about how you want to experience it as a whole. How do you want to experience the month? Each holiday? Each service and opportunity for community gathering? How do you want to be a part of it – for yourself, your family, the Jewish people as a whole? 

As the community gathers, as we come through the monthlong journey, we can all feel the swell together. We remember that none of us is seeking alone. Together, we are putting down roots so that we can grow new branches in the year ahead.

“It is a tree of life for all who hold fast to it.” May we all be inscribed and sealed in the Book of Life—the Tree of Life—for a year of goodness, peace, prosperity, health, joy, and beautiful beginnings, endings, and moments in between.