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We hope you are healthy and enjoying all the blessings of summer. 

Antisemitism has exploded across the world. You don’t have to look far. We have seen evidence of violent hatred in Philadelphia, the suburbs, and even at the Governor’s house in Harrisburg. The reasons are complex and have a long history. 

Attending services on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is a powerful way to SHOW the people who hate us that we Jewish people refuse to be intimidated and are not going away. We are here to stay and help build a better world! Only good can result from showing your solidarity with other Jews who stand together on these holy days and pray together for a world where we can all live in peace and dignity. This strength is the heart of our Jewish people. 

We cannot allow ourselves to withdraw and be hopeless spectators. There is meaningful action we can take that truly combats hate in a positive way. For over 135 years, Congregation Kesher Israel has been committed and devoted to Judaism and our congregants. Our Jewish people need each other now, more than ever. 

Please join us when Rosh Hashanah services will be conducted in our Sanctuary on Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13, 2026.  Kol Nidre service will begin the evening of Sunday, September 20 and Yom Kippur services will be held on  Monday,  September 21, 2026.  5. 

Rabbi Michael Perice and Chazzan Steve Friedell will be working together to lead us in inspiring High Holiday Services. 

 Once again, we will have security guards to ensure everyone’s safety. We will follow best practices and adhere to all safety precautions. We will also provide children’s services and childcare in our Mersky Chapel, so that parents and relatives can take time to pray in shul. 

Please note that services will be held in person only. Kesher means connection, and we will all pray together as a Jewish community in our synagogue, not in isolation. These Holy Days are a time to be together in our Sanctuary. 

To ensure your participation, please complete and return the membership form that was mailed to you for the Jewish New Year 5786 by September 8, 2025, or you can simply download it here. If you need childcare for children under the age of 6, simply indicate the number on the form. Also enclosed is the form for the Yizkor Booklet, which will be distributed at the Yizkor Service on Yom Kippur and throughout the year. Despite rising costs of almost everything, Kesher Israel membership has remained unchanged. 

As Elie Wiesel said, “Action is the only remedy to indifference: the most insidious danger of all.” Take action this Rosh Hashanah and come to Kesher Israel. Listen to the ageless 100 blasts of the shofar, and that familiar call of “Tekiah!” as we restart our lives for the new year. We will hear prayers and blessings for the remaining hostages and their families, and pray for the safety of our families. 

 Let us all begin 5787 together at Kesher Israel. We will see family, friends, and familiar faces. Together, we will chant the prayers that have sustained us for thousands of years. We are not alone; we’re Kesher. 

Sincerely, 

Congregation Kesher Israel Board of Directors