What is Rosh Hodesh?
Rosh Hodesh means "head of the month." The month begins with the appearance of the new moon (Rosh Hodesh).

In biblical times, Rosh Hodesh, the first of every month, was a festival marked by joyous sacrifice, feasting, and trumpets. Later, in rabbinic times, bonfires were lit on the mountains to announce the arrival of the new moon.

Reform congregations generally observe Rosh Hodesh for one day, on the first day of the Hebrew month. Rosh Hodesh is observed in Reform congrations by additions to the liturgy as well.

Starting with the second wave of Jewish feminism, Rosh Hodesh was reclaimed as a women’s holiday with many women forming Rosh Hodesh groups. While we at CEEBJ have at times celebrated Rosh Hodesh as a women’s holy day, this month we are celebrating it with the entire congregation.

What is Elul?
Elul is the Hebrew month prior to Rosh HaShanah. It is a time during which one is encouraged to engage in self-reflection to prepare for the Yamim haNora’im, the High Holy Days. Traditionally, the shofar is blown each day during the month.

Why should I attend this Rosh Hodesh Elul event?
• For some soul moving music
• For some personal reflection time
• For some cooking
• For some learning
• For some social action/social justice work
• For community building/socializing
• To prepare your month’s plan of preparations

Register below or by calling (414) 228-7545.