Yom Kippur
A Day of Return, Reflection, and Renewal
This day is for self-reflection, prayer, fasting, and community. We gather to take responsibility, to seek forgiveness, and to return to the best version of ourselves.
Teshuvah is the act of returning.
Yom Kippur is the Day of Atonement.
Yom Kippur Hashanah in 2025 begins on Wednesday evening, October 1st, and continues through Thursday night, October 2nd.
Quick start: Yom Kippur at Synagogue | Spiritual Preparation
Common Questions about Yom Kippur:
When is Yom Kippur?
Yom Kippur Hashanah in 2025 begins on Wednesday evening, October 1st, and continues through Thursday night, October 2nd.
What happens at Yom Kippur services?
Yom Kippur services include special prayers like Kol Nidrei, the recitation of confession (Vidui), the Yizkor memorial service, and Ne’ilah, the closing service. Many people spend much of the day at synagogue in prayer, reflection, and community.
Will people be fasting?
Yes, most adults fast from food and drink for 25 hours, from sunset to nightfall the next day, as an act of reflection and humility.
Children, those who are pregnant, and anyone whose health is at risk (both physically or mentally) are prohibited from fasting.
⭐ Preparing for Yom Kippur
Get ready for Yom Kippur with thoughtful resources to help you prepare spiritually, emotionally, and practically for the holiest day of the year.
➡️ Learn More About:
Tools to Help You Engage with Yom Kippur
- 📝 Guide: How to Get Religious Accommodations At Work
- 📖 Not a Mahzor 5785: High Holiday reader
Explore Yom Kippur
📚 Teshuvah
Return to your best self. These articles explore the work of teshuvah: turning, repairing, and recommitting to your values and relationships.
🕍 Yom Kippur Prayers and Services at Synagogue
Discover what to expect at synagogue, from the big moments to the quiet prayers, and learn how each part of the service invites reflection and connection.
You can find a description of all the different services below.
Here’s a breakdown of the six services you will encounter:
Shabbat Services Email Mini-Course
🏠 Yom Kippur at Home & with Kids
Bring the meaning of Yom Kippur into your home and family life, with practical ideas for navigating the day with children and making it personal.
🥪 Fasting on Yom Kippur
Fasting is one of the central practices of Yom Kippur, but it’s not for everyone. Learn who fasts, why we fast, and how to honor the day meaningfully even if you can’t fast.
More “Fasting” posts »
💭 Theology
🗣️ Yom Kippur Sermons
Hear voices from the pulpit: thoughtful, moving sermons offering insight, challenge, and hope for the day of atonement.
All Yom Kippur Posts
