High Holy Day FAQs: 5786

What are the differences between services held at the BJ Sanctuary and those at the Church of St. Paul and St. Andrew (SPSA – 86th Street & West End Avenue)?

Both locations offer the same deeply meaningful and musically vibrant services led by our spiritual leadership team consisting of Rabbis Roly Matalon, Felicia Sol, and Becca Weintraub, Hazzan Ari Priven, and others. The only difference is the physical setting. Some members prefer SPSA, while others favor the BJ Sanctuary. One location is not more important than the other, and in fact many longtime members prefer SPSA for a variety of reasons. Our spiritual leaders rotate between locations to ensure a consistent experience.

Can I choose my preferred service location during registration?

Yes, during registration, you can select your preferred service location, subject to availability. We encourage early membership renewal and registration to secure your desired service location.

What happens if I arrive late to a service?

Arriving late may result in being redirected to an alternate location if your chosen venue has reached capacity. To ensure seating at your preferred location, please arrive early.

Can someone save a seat for me?

Seats may be saved for others until 10:00 AM for morning services and until the service begins for evening services. After these times, saved seats will be released to accommodate other members.

What is an entrance card, and how do I use it?

An entrance card serves as your access pass to High Holy Day services. It confirms your registration and helps expedite entry. Please present it upon arrival at your selected service location.

Will entrance cards be mailed or emailed?

Both. You will receive a physical entrance card by mail and a digital version via email. This year, the mailed cards will be perforated for easy handling. Attached to the mailed entrance card is your Kol Nidre Partnership Appeal Pledge Card, 

What is the Kol Nidre Partnership Appeal?

While membership dues and tuition fees cover part of our expenses, they only go so far. BJ already subsidizes many programs, helping bridge the cost between fees and expenses. The Kol Nidre Appeal supports BJ’s essential infrastructure, staffing, and security, which ensure we can continue to offer the transformative experiences we all cherish in a safe environment.

Our annual fundraising campaign, which begins on Kol Nidre, helps sustain BJ’s wide array of programming and experiences—everything from regular Shabbat dinners and High Holy Day services to social justice initiatives, retreats and trips, and lifelong learning opportunities. The Kol Nidre Partnership Appeal enables BJ to remain a vibrant hub for Jewish life and a community that inspires us all.

What should I do if I lose my entrance card?

If you misplace your entrance card, you can use the digital version sent to your email. Alternatively, you can proceed to a member services table if you don’t have either.

Will High Holy Day services be available via livestream?

Yes, all services from the BJ Sanctuary and select services from SPSA will be livestreamed. We will again offer a paid structure for non-members to access the livestream. For BJ members, it is included with your membership.

Do I need to register separately for online access?

BJ members in good standing are automatically registered for online access and will receive instructions via email. Non-members must register and make a contribution to access the livestream.

How can non-members access the livestream?

Non-members can register for the High Holy Day livestream by visiting our website and selecting their preferred access level, when registration is available in mid-July.

What should I do if I don’t have a mahzor at home?

Members can borrow a hard copy of the mahzor by reserving one in advance and picking it up in person. Alternatively, digital copies are available for purchase through the Rabbinical Assembly. Our reservation form for mahzorim will be available later this summer.

Are there services tailored for families with children?

Yes, BJ offers a range of services designed for families with children of various ages, including early childhood, a new elementary-aged service, and our traditional family service led by Rabbi Becca Weintraub, Rabbi Anne Ebersman, and the BJ teens.

Are children welcome at 88th Street and SPSA?

Of course! Children and families are welcome in any services we offer, though most families choose the family-specific offerings.

Are there any new family services or offerings this year?

In response to community feedback, we’re introducing an additional family service for children in early elementary school. This will help create age-appropriate, spiritually meaningful experiences and ensure ample space for all across all services.

Will there be a mask-required seating section at services?

Yes, a limited number of seats will be designated as mask-required sections at all adult services. An usher or volunteer can direct you. Please arrive early if you wish to sit in this section.

What accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities?

BJ has a reserved section for those with special access requirements. There is a section of the High Holy Day registration form dedicated to indicating any requirements.

How can I volunteer as an usher or greeter during the High Holy Days?

During the registration process, you will have the opportunity to indicate your interest in volunteering. Volunteers play a vital role in creating a welcoming environment for all attendees, we are grateful for your consideration!