After a morning of contemplative reflection and prayer, we invite you to join us for a series of Yom Kippur afternoon programs, led by Beth El community members, to help bring forward the meaning, purpose, belonging, and even joy of this Yom Kippur day.

Yizkor Circle (Outdoor space behind the Sanctuary - please enter through the Sanctuary, walk behind the Bima, and exit the doors behind Bima to arrive at this space!)
Before the Yizkor service, we gather together to share stories of our loved ones and connect with fellow travelers on the journey of grief, mourning and memory. 

Decriminalizing Mental Illness: Becoming a Caring Community (Beit Midrash)
Members of the Tikkun Olam Leadership Team (TOLT) will be making a presentation to share about Beth El's participation in the Care First Jail Last Coalition. In addition, we will discuss the Jewish perspectives on mental health, learn what constitutes serious mental illness and discuss effective community-based treatments.

Yom Kippur Teen Experience (Meadow)
Join your teen community for a contemplative and creative experience reflecting on the themes of Yom Kippur. This program is open to all 6th-12th graders and will be taking place as part of Beth El's larger Yom Kippur afternoon session offerings. 
 
Why Jonah? (Beit Limmud Rooms 215/216)
Jonah is one of the strangest books of the Hebrew Scriptures, depicting a prophet who does not act like a prophet. What did ancient readers make of Jonah’s story? Why did the early rabbis read it on Yom Kippur? What lessons does this confounding book have for us today? Join Naomi Janowitz as we explore these questions in community!

For Watercoloring To Deepen… (Art Room next to Beth El's Courtyard)
Join Ilona Sturm, Beth El’s new Kadima Art Specialist, for watercoloring - with card and letter writing - to deepen your daylong journey.

Introduction to Writing an Ethical Will (Courtyard)
What do you cherish that you want your loved ones to remember when you are gone? The creation of an ethical will (tzava’ah) is a life-affirming Jewish practice that helps us reflect on key moments that have shaped us, where we find meaning in our lives, and our hopes for the future. Through conversation, reflection, and writing, join Mikaela Dunitz (she/her) as we begin to explore our values and how we want to share our legacies.  

Yom Kippur Song Circle (Garden)
Music is the language of the soul.  It allows us to communicate in ways words alone cannot express.  As we harmonize, we find communion with one another and build a community.  And while fasting, the act of singing with a group can allow us to find even deeper spiritual meaning. In that spirit, join us as we gather to sing together on Yom Kippur afternoon.  Led by Steve Branoff, we will sing traditional songs with melodies both old and new.  Song sheets with lyrics will be provided.  Participants are also encouraged to suggest or teach new songs that the group can learn. We look forward to seeing – and hearing – all of you.