High Holiday FAQs
Here's what you can expect
Let me paint you a picture...
I cannot accurately describe my excitement for our first-ever High Holidays at Masa Seattle. We at Masa Seattle already know that they are going to be beautiful and transformative, but we're sure many of you are curious to find out what's in store. We will try to paint you a picture in words of what we are planning and we hope you will sign up today for this unforgettable experience.
Imagine, you walk into a beautiful candle-lit room on the eve of Yom Kippur at the Mt. Baker Boat House with breath-taking views of Lake Washington and greeted warmly by our enthusiastic rabbi.The next hour is filled with soul-stirring music from our talented musical ensemble, uplifting prayer and thought provoking questions that will help you to reflect on the year that has passed and the improvements you want to make for the year ahead. And that's just Kol Kidder! For Yom Kippur day, we will do a deep dive, reflecting on the year that has passed and committing to positive growth and change in the year ahead. Through music, prayer, Jewish meditation and Torah, we will do real teshuvah, returning to the best selves we know we can be.
If all that didn't entice you, her are a few FAQ's to give you a sense of what else to expect:
Q: Will there be food?
A: While we won't be serving any food on Yom Kippur (except, of course, Break-Fast) there will be plenty of spiritual sustenance for all.
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Q: What if, for health reason, I can't fast on Yom Kippur?
A: No one will give you the side-eye. In fact, according to Jewish law, if you have health reasons that make fasting dangerous, you are actually not allowed to fast. Similarly, children under the age of 13 are not supposed to fast. You gotta feed those little growing bodies! For this reason, we will have some healthy snacks available in the kitchen on-site so that you can stay with us all day without having to run out for food. We do ask that you be respectful of others who are fasting and not chow down in front of a bunch of hungry, repentant Jews...it's for your own safety. :-)
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Q: What if I can't stay the whole day? Can I leave early or arrive late?
A: AbsolutelyI it's a lot to pack into a single day and we know that some people will need to come and go. If you arrive late and there is no greeter at the door, just fill out a name tag and we will get your properly checked in later when there is a break. If you need to leave early, just let a greeter know so that we can unchain you from the wall (just kidding!). Please feel free to come and go as you please.
Q: Will I feel comfortable coming alone?
A: You bet! There will be opportunities throughout each service to meet new people and feel welcomed into a community like never before.
Q: Do I need to dress up?
A: Only if you want to. We are a "come as you are" community. While it is traditional to wear white on Yom Kippur, we aren't the fashion police. You do you.
Q: What if I don't know Hebrew?
A: You will be in good company. Although many of our prayers are sung in Hebrew, we always provide translation and strive to make the service accessible to all.
Q: Am I going to feel bored, confused or uncomfortable?
A: We sure hope not! We have spent many long hours trying to eliminate the boring, confusing and uncomfortable. If you think we missed the mark, please let us know so that we can properly repent before next Rosh Hashanah. :-)
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Q: Will there be security?
A: Yes. Sadly, in the world that we live in today, security is a must for all large Jewish gatherings. Rest assured that we have already made the arrangements to give you a safe High Holiday experience.
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Q: Will there be parking?
A: Yes, there is a public lot at the Mt. Baker Boat House and also parking at Genesee Park, but we do encourage you to carpool or use public transportation if possible.
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Q: I've got little ones, will this be family friendly?
A: Absolutely! We love children and their joyful noises during services. We are a community that will never shush your little one or give you the "stink-eye" when your kid acts like a kid. If you find your little one(s) needs a break from the service, we will have a kid friendly space filled with toys just outside the main hall. There is also a wonderful playground in Genesee Park and a beach area for you and your children to take a breather.
Q: Can I invite all my friends?
A: Absolutely! We can't wait to meet them! But RSVP soon because space is very limited.
Q: Can I RSVP right now!
A: YUP!