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 the 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. 

It is not an either or: Choosing Life and Death – insights and reflections with Rabbi Lee Bycel (Beit Midrash)
On Yom Kippur, this text from Deuteronomy is central in recommitting ourselves to life: “I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. You shall choose life, so that you and your offspring will live” (Deuteronomy 30:19) In this discussion, we will explore the possibility that only by choosing both life and death do we really embrace life

The Power of Belonging led by Beth El’s B-REDI Team (217)
Join the B-REDI (Belonging, Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) team to engage in dialogue and build on the work of fostering belonging within our vibrant Beth El family. We will offer activities and discussions designed to enrich our understanding of what it means to belong, with a particular focus on racial equity, diversity, and inclusion. Together, we'll identify ways to strengthen connections for people of all backgrounds and identities in our community. This isn’t just a gathering—it’s an opportunity to explore, connect, and grow together in a spirit of unity and inclusiveness.

Writing an Autobiography: Reflections and Lessons Learned with Mike Austin (Garden)
Illustrated by a range of questions from "who cares?" to "how to publish?". Following a brief introduction with sample publications, this session will focus on Q&A.