Wellesley Weston Chabad Observes Rosh Hashanah

Members of the Wellesley Weston Chabad observed Rosh Hashanah today, gathering in two separate groups, men and women, under a white tent at the temple on Worcester Street.

About 50 people attended the services, which lasted until 2 p.m. today and were followed by a modest outdoor banquet. 

Of the Jewish ceremonies, said Wellesly Weston Chabad member Lee Silk, "This is one of the few that are very celebratory." He said the holiday celebrates the Jewish new year, 5,771, according to the Jewish calendar, which began before the Roman calendar. 

Women were attired in dresses, and men wore suits, dress pants and shirts, with yamakas (cloth skullcaps) and, for some, prayer shawls - white decorated garments worn over their shoulders, sometimes worn over the head. 

The group spent the day reading from the torah and singing, with occasional jokes told by Rabbi Moshe Bleich.

Wellesley Weston Chabad is open to all Jews, whether they practice orthodox, reform or conservative Judaism, according to the temple's website. Worshipers are encouraged to practice Judaism at their own pace. "It's a very comfortable place to worship," Silk said.

Rosh Hashanah lasts until Sept. 10.