For the first time, Chabad of Merrick-Bellmore-Wantagh will offer High Holiday services at two locations, adding a site in South Bellmore to bring services closer to residents of Bellmore, Wantagh and surrounding communities.
Chabad’s established High Holiday services will continue at its Merrick location, while the new South Bellmore site will provide a smaller, more close-knit setting for local families and individuals.
Rosh Hashanah begins the evening of Friday, Sept. 11, and continues through Sunday, Sept. 13. Yom Kippur begins the evening of Sunday, Sept. 20, and concludes Monday night, Sept. 21.
Services in South Bellmore will be led by Rabbi Aizik Kramer, the son of Rabbi Shimon Kramer, director of Chabad of Merrick-Bellmore-Wantagh. He will be joined by visiting rabbis Chaim Rapoport of Long Beach, California, and Zali Lifshitz of Boise, Idaho.
The three rabbis will lead High Holiday services intended to offer Bellmore and Wantagh residents a welcoming and meaningful experience closer to home.
Chabad’s larger services in Merrick will continue under the direction of Rabbi Shimon Kramer. The new South Bellmore location is intended to provide a convenient alternative for people who want to celebrate the holidays in their own community.
Services at both locations are open to everyone, including those who have never attended High Holiday services and regular synagogue-goers seeking a place to worship and connect.
“We want everyone to feel comfortable walking through the door, regardless of their background or level of experience,” Rabbi Aizik Kramer said. “You can join us for the entire service or come for a part that is meaningful to you, whether it’s the shofar blowing, the sermon, Yizkor or any other part of the day.”
Hebrew-English prayer books will be available, and English guidance will be provided throughout the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. The schedule will include traditional liturgy, a festive Kiddush following Rosh Hashanah services and a community break-fast at the conclusion of Yom Kippur.
There is no charge to attend, although donations are appreciated. Advance registration is required for all guests. The address of the South Bellmore location will be provided to those who register.
Through the addition of the neighborhood location, Chabad hopes to make High Holiday observances more accessible and give residents another place to reflect, pray and celebrate the beginning of the Jewish New Year close to home.
For schedules, registration and more information about both locations, visit ChabadJewishLife.org/services or call the Chabad office at (516) 833-3057, ext. 104. Rabbi Aizik Kramer can also be reached at (516) 425-4122. The Chabad is asking those wishing to attend services to RSVP in order to receive addresses for both service locations.
