Chabad Greater Hilton Head to offer free High Holiday services

Chabad Greater Hilton Head will host free traditional services for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur this fall, aiming to make the Jewish High Holidays accessible to all, regardless of financial circumstance or synagogue affiliation.

The services begin with Rosh Hashanah at sundown Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, and continue through Yom Kippur on Oct. 1–2, 2025. Events will take place at a Bluffton hotel, with registration available at www. jewishhiltonhead.org/highholidays

Rabbi Mendel Hertz, director of Chabad Greater Hilton Head, said the goal is to create an inclusive environment. “Judaism should be accessible and welcoming to all Jews regardless of background or financial situation,” he said. “We strive to create a nonjudgmental atmosphere where beginners feel comfortable and everyone can participate meaningfully.”

Chabad services will feature traditional melodies, spirited singing, bilingual prayer books, contemporary explanations and guidance for those unfamiliar with synagogue customs. Hertz said the format is intended to make services meaningful for both newcomers and those more familiar with Jewish tradition.

“Our user-friendly services create an enjoyable and meaningful experience for everyone from beginners to those well-versed in tradition,” Hertz said. “We believe that when people feel welcomed and included, they discover the beauty and relevance of these ancient celebrations.”

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, begins at sundown Sept. 22nd and continues through nightfall Sept. 24th. Traditions include sounding the shofar, festive meals with symbolic foods such as apples dipped in honey, and prayers for blessing and peace.

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, will be observed beginning at sundown Oct. 1st and ending at nightfall Oct. 2nd. Considered the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur is marked by fasting, extended synagogue services and the Yizkor memorial prayer.

Chabad Greater Hilton Head was established in 2018 by Rabbi Mendel and Sheina Hertz and is part of the global Chabad-Lubavitch movement. The center offers educational programs, holiday celebrations and social services for Jewish residents and visitors in the region.

For details about service times or to reserve a seat, visit www.jewishhiltonhead. org/highholidays