Selichot

Selichot 

2025 Selichot Programming  |  Online Selichot Resources  |  2025 High Holiday Programming

What are Selichot?

Selichot are prayers for forgiveness, the mention of which date back to as early as the 9^th century, when King David instituted a special service for atonement upon realizing the Temple would fall. He called upon the Lord for guidance, and God showed him that the people would recite the order of Selichot, including a recitation of the 13 Attributes of Mercy (the words God taught Moses whenever the people needed to beg for divine compassion; a passage from Exodus). As true for us now as it was in the time of King David, the ability to appeal to God’s mercy acts as reassurance for the Jewish people that repentance is always possible, and He always welcomes our return.

The Selichot were originated as prayers for fast days, so it was a natural progression that they became part of the ritual during the six days of fasting prior to Rosh Hashanah. Sephardic communities begin saying the Selichot at the start of Elul, allowing for 40 days, a period similar to that of Moses’ time on Mount Sinai, devoted to prayers for forgiveness. Ashkenazi Jews’ practice is generally to begin reciting the prayers on the Saturday night prior to Rosh Hashanah, marking the beginning of a new week, before the start of a new year.

The Significance of Selichot

The importance of ending one year and beginning anew by asking for forgiveness should not be understated. It is a time for reflection of and learning from the past year that can lead to restoration and reconciliation in the new year. It is an act of putting faith in the love of God, relishing His ability to forgive and be merciful, and, in turn, incorporating that same love, forgiveness and mercy into your own approach to the new year. It is a chance to let go of past mistakes and proactively head into a future filled with better choices, compassion and happiness.

2025 Programming

Community Selichot
Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 6:00PM

Setting the stage for the High Holy Days, Selichot is a late night service that instills in us the feelings of awe and introspection. Through text and melody, we intentionally begin the High Holy Day season. Begin the season of reflection with sweetness and soul! This evening will include a teen discussion—stay tuned for information!

6:00 PM - Apple-Themed Pre-Service Gathering
Ease into the evening with apple-inspired delights, appletinis & spiked or non-spiked apple cider and a catered light dinner buffet. Connect with community as we begin to reflect on the year past and the one ahead.

7:00 PM - Selichot Service
Step into the spirit of the High Holy Days with a traditional Selichot service led by Rabbi Ratner and Cantor Ruth.

Let this soulful evening set the tone for a meaningful High Holy Day season.
We can't wait to share it with you. Please register here. (Different link from High Holy Day registration.)

Online Resources

Prayers

• Click here to access a booklet containing the S’lichot prayers we recite during the month of Elul.

A Taste of S'lichot Music From Around the World:

• Adon Ha Selichot (Traditional Sephardic S'lichot, Brazil)
• The Revivo Project (S'lichot Melody)