As summer fades and the Jewish calendar turns toward the fall, a sacred season begins—one marked by introspection, prayer, and spiritual renewal. Known as the High Holy Days, this period includes two of the most significant holidays in Judaism: Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. For Jewish people around the world, these days are not just ceremonial—they are deeply personal moments to reconnect with God, seek forgiveness, and begin anew.
Yael Eckstein, President and Global CEO of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, recently posted some reflections for the season. As the Jewish High Holy Days draw near, Yael spoke about the spiritual significance of Rosh Hashanah, as well as the urgent humanitarian needs facing many Jewish families in Israel and beyond. Rosh Hashanah, which means “Head of the Year” in Hebrew, marks the beginning of the Jewish calendar year. It is celebrated on the first and second days of the Hebrew month of Tishrei, which typically falls in September. Unlike the secular New Year, Rosh Hashanah is not as much about festivities and resolutions as it is concerned with spiritual accountability.
Jewish tradition teaches that on Rosh Hashanah, God opens the Book of Life and begins to inscribe the fate of each person for the coming year. It is a time to reflect on one’s actions, seek forgiveness from others, and return to God with a humble heart. The central themes of the holiday are repentance (teshuvah), prayer (tefillah), and charity (tzedakah).
For an entire month leading up to Rosh Hashanah, many Jews participate in selichot—late-night prayers of apology and supplication. These prayers are recited in synagogues, often beginning at midnight, as individuals ask God for forgiveness and spiritual cleansing. This time of prayer is especially significant for young people in Israel.
“The youth of Israel are actually more religious than their parents,” Yael says, “[Israel] is the only country in the world where the youth are more spiritually conservative than their parents.” This trend defies global norms. In many countries, younger generations are drifting away from faith. But in Israel, young people are embracing tradition, prayer, and community with renewed passion. Their participation in selichot is not just ritual—it is a revival.
Recommended
For Christians seeking to understand the Jewish roots of their faith, this time of preparation for Jews offers a parallel to their own traditions. Just as Christians prepare their hearts during seasons such as Lent or Advent, Jews use the month of Elul to ready their souls for Rosh Hashanah. It’s a time of self-examination, humility, and hope.
While the High Holy Days are a time of spiritual renewal, Yael reminds us that for many Jews, especially in Israel, this season is also marked by hardship. “For so many poor and elderly Jews—victims of war, refugees, orphans, displaced families—this might be impossible,” she says. “The constant terror in the Holy Land has only made things worse for thousands of vulnerable Jews.”
This reality hits hard for those who have been directly affected by terror. Rocket attacks, economic instability, and trauma have left many families struggling to afford basic necessities—let alone the traditional foods and rituals that make the High Holy Days meaningful. For Holocaust survivors, elderly immigrants, and children in war-torn regions, the joy of the season can feel out of reach.
However, Yael also offers up a message of hope. “God is merciful. God is kind. And we know that in difficult times, God works miracles. During this High Holy Days season, [Christians] can be a miracle for Jewish people in need.” One of the most beautiful aspects of the High Holy Days is their universal message. Although the rituals are uniquely Jewish, the themes of repentance, renewal, and mercy resonate with Christians as well. Both faiths teach that God seeks a contrite heart, that forgiveness is possible, and that love can overcome brokenness.
The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews has long been a lifeline for vulnerable Jewish communities. During the High Holy Days, The Fellowship ramps up its efforts to deliver food boxes, holiday meals, and spiritual resources to thousands of families in need. These gifts are more than material—they are acts of love, dignity, and faith.
By partnering with local organizations and volunteers, The Fellowship ensures that recipients not only receive physical aid but also feel seen, valued, and supported. The organization’s work is rooted in the biblical command from Psalm 82:4 to “Rescue the weak and the needy.”
For Christian supporters, this is a powerful opportunity to live out their faith. Supporting Israel during the High Holy Days is not just an act of charity—it’s a spiritual alignment with God’s heart for His people. It’s a way to say, “We remember, we care, and we stand with you.”
Yael invites Christians to see the season not as a different religion’s holiday, but as a moment to deepen their own spiritual journey with their Jewish brothers and sisters. Whether through prayer, learning, or giving, there are countless ways to engage. As Yael proclaims, “There is a spiritual revolution happening. You can feel it.”
As Rosh Hashanah approaches, there’s still time to make a difference. Whether you’re new to learning about Jewish traditions or have long stood with Israel, this season offers a unique opportunity to act.
Pray for the Jewish people—especially those in Israel facing hardship and trauma.
Learn more about the High Holy Days and their spiritual significance.
Give a gift to The Fellowship to help provide meals, shelter, and care to those in need.
Your support can be the miracle someone is praying for.
To learn more or make a donation, visit IFCJ.org.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member