Autumn Holidays in the Communities and Organizations of the Euro-Asian Region: An Overview

The autumn Jewish holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Simchat Torah (Shemini Atzeret) traditionally generate significant interest within Diaspora Jewish communities. It is during this period that many communities and organizations in the Euro-Asian region resume their active operations, launching a new season in the new Jewish year. This year, the holidays have been overshadowed by a severe humanitarian crisis resulting from a devastating war. Nevertheless, the difficult conditions faced by many Jewish communities and organizations supported by the EAJC did not prevent them from holding a series of events and celebrating the arrival of the holidays of the month of Tishrei.

We have compiled an overview of the key events of the autumn holiday cycle in the region, showcasing the holiday initiatives implemented by the communities and how many of them are jointly overcoming the crisis.

Mitzvah Association, Kazakhstan

In honor of Rosh Hashanah, the youth of the community hosted an educational trivia game dedicated to the traditions of the autumn holiday cycle, as well as a creative evening. Community volunteers designed the festive schedule independently. During Shabbat, children, teenagers, and young activists created holiday cards, which they subsequently presented to peers, parents, and community veterans.

The holiday theme was central to Sunday school sessions and Hebrew classes, where students familiarized themselves with holiday-related vocabulary.

For the duration of Sukkot, the Jewish community of Shymkent constructed a large Sukkah, which served as the venue for all holiday gatherings. Every participant had the opportunity to perform the ritual of the Four Species and participate in discussions regarding the laws and traditions of the holiday.

In the youth club of the Rimon Community Center, the autumn holiday cycle concluded with a Shabbat gathering dedicated to Simchat Torah.

Project Kesher (International Jewish Women's Organization)

Project Kesher in Russia utilizes its resources to inspire and support Jewish community members during difficult times. Under the auspices of Project Kesher, 22 Rosh Hashanah celebrations were initiated and conducted across 18 municipal communities nationwide. Participants selected diverse formats for the celebrations, ranging from classic community events (lectures, trivia, contests, Beit Midrash study, children's programs, and