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19| O akville B eaver | T hursday,S eptem ber 6,2018 insidehalton.com vance of the new year. "For many Jews, the High Holy Days begin when Elul begins," said Wunch, who, alongside Rabbi Stephen Wise, forms the clergy of Shaarei-Beth El. "It's about looking in and seeing how we've done: What have we gotten right? What have we gotten wrong? What do we have to fix? (It) is a month of reflec-fix? (It) is a month of reflec-f tion and preparing our souls." Shaarei-Beth El de- scribes its vision as being the "vibrant centre of Jew- ish life in Halton Region." It may also be the only syn- agogue. Halton is home to a Jewish community of "roughly around 1,500 peo- ple, according to the avail- able data, though I think it might be higher," estimat- ed Wise in an email. On Sept. 1, the syna- gogue will host a special service to mark Selichot, which acts as a kickoff to the High Holy Days, ex- plained Wunch. Rosh Ha- shanah starts after sunset on Sept. 9 and is generally observed for two days, she added, noting the first eve- ning is often a time when families eat a festive meal.families eat a festive meal.f Apples dipped in honey, symbolizing a sweet new year, are a common tradi- tion. After dinner, many families will attend syna-families will attend syna-f gogue, which also hosts a service the following morning. The shofar, an instrument made of a ram's horn, is typically played to usher in the new year. "It's not like a New Year's celebration that is like a party," Wunch ex- plained. "It's worship that is both celebratory and somewhat sombre. We are grateful for the (year), and looking forward, but it's al- so a commemoration of the creation of the world. We celebrate that and we also begin the process of repen- tance." Between Rosh Hasha- nah and Yom Kippur, Jews try to right wrongs they have made toward others, often by apologizing and asking for forgiveness. On Yom Kippur, the focus turns to sins against God and oneself, said Wunch, who believes the two are almost indistinguishable. "Asking your friend for forgiveness might be scaryforgiveness might be scaryf and anxiety-producing but it's not that hard," she said. "But coming to terms with the ways we've treated our- selves can be much more challenging." Adherents often spend much of Yom Kippur, which starts at sundown on Sept. 18 through Sept. 19, at synagogue. Shaarei- Beth El hosts several ser- vices, as well as and a com- munal walk by Lake Onta- rio. Adults often fast for a 25-hour period, and ab- stain from sex, wearing leather and bathing. "Everyone has their own personal practice in that regard of what is meaningful to them," said Wunch. "Some people don't shower or wear makeup." "It's about eschewing the needs of the physical in order to focus on the needs of the spiritual ... Putting energy, time and focus on spiritual health and ability to dig deep." Continued from page 18 Walkers • Wheelchairs • Lift Chairs • Stair Lifts • Porch Lifts • Aids for Daily Living Adjustable Beds • Compression Stockings • Incontinence • Bathroom Safety • CPAP & More Sales Service Rentals Events Thank-you Oakville! 2018 Platinum Award Winner for Best Home Health Care