Murphys, CA…Jews around the world begin observing the High Holidays at sundown on Sunday evening, October 2nd. This is the beginning of the two-day commemoration of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Then, 10 days later, Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, begins at sundown on Tuesday, October 11th. This is a time of reflection, introspections, prayer and re-connection. It is also a time to remember family members and friends who have passed away and to pray for peace, prosperity and health throughout the world. It is a somber yet uplifting period.

While there is no formal temple or synagogue in Calaveras, Mariposa or Tuolumne counties, the Mother Lode Jewish Community (MLJC) will be holding a Shabbat Shuvah gathering on the Saturday that falls between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, on October 8th, beginning at 11 am, in Murphys. MLJC member Rabbi Andra Greenwald will be leading the Shabbat Shuvah services at the October gathering, which is a pot-luck affair.

The Mother Lode Jewish Community welcomes members and nonmembers alike to its services and events. For more information, call 209-533-1650 or check out the motherlodejewishcommunity.org website.