Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur 5781

CENTURY-OLD MOUNT KISCO HEBREW CONGREGATION MOVES FORWARD WITH IN-PERSON HIGH HOLIDAY SERVICES 2020/5781 

In August 2020, the Village of Mount Kisco approved the request of Mount Kisco Hebrew Congregation (MKHC), founded in 1906, to erect a large tent on the parking lot of the Mount Kisco Justice Court at 40 Green Street for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. The congregation, whose long history includes weathering the 1918 pandemic, felt after a poll of its members that there was a strong desire to meet in person for services in a safe, socially distanced outdoor setting.

The large tent allowed for socially distance seating for the entire membership and guests who wished to attend. After months of isolation, the opportunity to safely gather together in an outdoor setting to celebrate the holidays against a backdrop of blue skies was tremendously uplifting. Rabbi Dov Greer of MKHC and Guest Cantor Julian Horowitz led the services.

One congregant shared how moved she enjoying people of all ages praying together as a community in a safe way. Seeing four generations of one family, able to share this experience together, surrounded by community, was an example of exactly how special these days were. That it was possible, provided a rare feeling of hope in these difficult times. The cost to the synagogue of hosting these services was quite large, however the experience of being together during this time and the sense of community were priceless. Yom Kippur services were brought to conclusion with the sounding of the shofar and a Havdalah ceremony. Thank you to all who made a contribution to this important effort.

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