Observing Yom Kippur 2013 in Birmingham

Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in the Jewish religion and culture. It is also referred to as the “day of atonement” and is traditionally commemorated with a solemn fast for repentance and atonement of sins committed in the past year.

The holiday marks the end of the annual High Holy Day period, which begins with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Observation begins at sunset Friday. The solemn holiday falls annually on the 10th day of Tishrei, a month on the Hebrew calendar, which is nine days after the first day of Rosh Hashanah.

To observe Yom Kippur, one should eat and drink festively the day before—once early in the day and once later, before Kol Nidrei synagogue services. Then, for almost 25 hours, the day is spent in the synagogue without eating, drinking and other restrictions.

To observe the High Holy Days and holiday period before Kol Nidrei and after the Yom Kippur fast, many Jewish specialties are made. Noodle Kugel, bagles and honey cake are a few staples that usually make their way to the table. What are your traditional foods for breaking of the fast?

Commemorating the holiday

Here is the schedule at Temple Beth El in nearby Bloomfield Township: 

• 8 p.m. Friday: Kol Nidrei services for Erev Yom Kippur begin
• 10:30 a.m. Satruday: Yom Kippur morning services begin
• 1 p.m. Saturday: Reflections
• 1:30 p.m. Saturday: Youth services grades 1-6
• 3:45 p.m. Saturday: Afternoon services
• 4:30 p.m. Saturday: Memorial and concluding service, followed by Break the Fast Buffet.