SUKKOT is the Torah way of displaying our confidence that we have been forgiven on Yom Kippur. On Sukkot, we joyfully celebrate G-d's protection by leaving our normal homes and moving into the Sukkah. Doing this, we demonstrate that our protection the whole year comes not from the work of our own hands, but from G-d. An additional element of the Sukkot observance is to recall the booths our forefathers used in the desert, while travelling to the Promised Land. On Sukkot, it is a mitzvah to own and use the Lulav, Etrog, Hadism and Aravot. These represent the many products of nature which we give thanks for on Sukkot. The Lulav and Etrog are taken each day of Sukkot and a blessing is recited. In addition, they are used every morning of Sukkot in the Shul, during Hallel and Hoshanat. Anyone wishing to order a Lulav and Etrog should contact the Shul or Rabbi Stiefel.

SHEMINI ATZERET AND SIMCHAT TORAH The final two days of the holiday season are separate celebrations in their own right. On Shemini Atzeret, the focus is G-d's love for the Jewish People and his desire for them to remain before Him, celebrating for one more day. On Simchat Torah, we celebrate the study of Torah. We complete the yearly reading of the five books of the Torah and begin reading the Torah again, from Bereshit. We celebrate with Hakafot (procession) around the Shul with the Torahs and by giving Aliyot to all in attendance, even those under Bar Mitzvah.

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