When is it?

Yom Kippur occurs from sundown on Sunday, 9/24, to sundown on Monday, 9/25, which is ten days after Rosh HaShanah, the Jewish New Year. It is a day of rest, which is why there is no school this Monday.

What is it?

Yom Kippur is the day of atonement, a day for fasting and reflecting on your sins. After atoning, the hope is that God will inscribe your name in the Book of Life, which means that you are going to heaven.

The High Holy Days are the days between, and of, Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur. Those who are observing focus on introspection.

Things to Remember:

Don’t say, “Happy Yom Kippur!” Instead, say, “Have a meaningful fast!” or “May your name be inscribed in the Book of Life.”

Give your observing friends grace! The Yom Kippur fast prohibits food and water, so be nice to your Jewish friends on Yom Kippur (and every other day.)