High Holy Day FAQs
We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. We do expect to sell out. Purchase your tickets online here »
Yes! See our Childcare page for more info.
As a member, you are entitled to free tickets to all of the services, but you must register for services. We’ve made it really easy this year. You can attend in person or by Zoom. No paper or electronic tickets will be sent ahead of time. If you’re joining us at the church, just show up to check in and get a wristband. All members will receive a Zoom link 48 hours ahead of time, so you can mix and match as you choose.
All members, and those who have purchased tickets, will receive a Zoom link 48 hours ahead of time.
Services are recorded for our archives but are not available to the public.
All information about directions and parking can be found here: https://chochmat.org/high-holy-days-2025/parking-2025/
- Chochmat HaLev, in consultation with our medical advisor and based on community survey results, will discontinue masking requirements for attendance at events. Masks, though not required, are recommended. We understand people need to make their own decisions about exposure and risk based on their own personal preferences, and health status.
- Chochmat HaLev will provide passive ventilation (e.g., open windows and doors under the supervision of security-trained personnel) and other equipment as available.
- DO NOT attend an event at Chochmat HaLev:
- if you are experiencing any potential symptoms of COVID-19 or other illness
- if you have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 10 days and have not had a negative antigen test on Day 6 or later
- if you have had a known exposure to COVID-19 in the past 3 – 5 days
- if a household member has tested positive in the last 10 days and has not had a negative test on Day 6 or later.
We have wonderful opportunities this year for you to contribute your gifts of time and skills. Please fill out this volunteer form »
- The sanctuary at First Presbyterian Church is wheelchair accessible. The only accessible bathrooms at the church are in another building, but people requiring this will have access to that building.
- Please refrain from wearing scented products to accommodate those with environmental sensitivities.
- If you need other accommodation or assistance, contact the office: 510-704-9687 or via shalom@chochmat.org.
- Attire – Many people have the custom of wearing white, symbolizing purity. On Yom Kippur, to return to simplicity, some do not wear leather, jewelry or make-up.
- Al Cheit cards – The Yamim Noraim (Days of Awe, or High Holy Days) are designed to inspire us to engage in Cheshbon Hanefesh (spiritual evaluation) and to make Tikkun (reparation) in our hearts, families, workplaces, communities and world. Filling out an Al Cheit card is an opportunity for you to name and acknowledge misdeeds from the past year, as well as what still needs healing within you. Cards are offered at Rosh Hashanah and Kol Nidre.
We are taking several steps to ensure the safety of our community:
- Professional security guards will monitor entrances and be alert to potential threats.
- IDs will be checked and wristbands required for all attendees. Wristbands must be worn at all times.
- The Berkeley Police Department will be patrolling the area and providing a visible security presence.
- Children must be in childcare or with a parent or guardian at all times.
Refund policy: all ticket sales are final – no refunds will be issued. Contact shalom@chochmat.org with any issues.
