Join us for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur — transformative services that weave music, movement, poetry & the wisdom of diverse teachers together with the depth of traditional prayers.
What to Expect
These are not your average High Holy Day services. They are immersive, musical, and deeply rooted in the living tradition of Jewish prayer. The ecstatic music and deep meditations integrate mind, body, and spirit, making prayer relevant and personal.
Ecstatic Music
Rabbi Brian Yosef & the BRIAH sacred music ensemble lead the service with original compositions, traditional melodies, nigunim, and prayers that carry the congregation into heart-opening devotion.
Transformation
A time for reflection, inspiration, and renewed devotion that ignite real changes in our lives and the world. The power of communal spiritual experience is harnessed for growth.
Inclusivity
All are welcome to join our High Holy Days community, regardless of background, level of observance, or prior experience with these holidays. Come exactly as you are.
Accessible Teaching
Rabbi Brian Yosef's teachings make the ancient wisdom of the High Holy Days alive and relevant — for longtime students of Torah, the spiritually curious, and the first-time participant.
Real Community
Our Bay Area community gathers with intention — new participants and longtime members share these sacred days together in genuine connection.
Contemplative Practice
Guided meditation, embodied movement, and silent reflection are woven throughout the services — inviting you to meet the Days of Awe with your whole being: body, heart, and spirit.
Services Schedule
All services are held at Northbrae Community Church in North Berkeley. The address is included in your confirmation email after registration.
Rosh Hashanah
ראש השנה · The New YearErev Rosh Hashanah
Friday, September 11, 20266:30 pm
Rosh Hashanah Morning Service
Saturday, September 12, 20269:30 am
Yom Kippur
יום כיפור · The Day of AtonementKol Nidre / Erev Yom Kippur
Sunday, September 20, 20266:30 pm
Yom Kippur All Day
Monday, September 21, 20269:30 am
Includes multiple services throughout the day
Yom Kippur Day — Full Schedule
Tickets & Reservations
The regular ticket price of $150 per service reflects the true cost of producing these transformative gatherings — the musicians, the space, and everything that makes them possible. Your ticket is an investment in this experience.
Need-Based Pricing Available
We believe no one should be turned away from the High Holy Days for financial reasons. These services belong to the whole community — and our sponsors make it possible for us to extend access to those who need it.
If the standard ticket price creates a genuine hardship, need-based pricing is available. This operates on a system of trust and integrity, and we appreciate your honesty when using this option.
Become a High Holy Days Sponsor
If you are able to contribute $1,000 or more as a tax-deductible gift, you can become a sponsor of this unique gathering — helping to make it possible for everyone who needs to be here to be here.
To become a sponsor, please email lisa@torahofawakening.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Services are held at Northbrae Community Church in North Berkeley. The exact address is included in your confirmation email after registration.
No, everyone is welcome. Torah of Awakening draws people from across the spectrum — lifelong Jews, those exploring Judaism for the first time, and spiritual seekers of all backgrounds. Come as you are with an open heart.
Not at all. The services are accessible to everyone, regardless of background. Transliterations and translations are provided, and Rabbi Brian Yosef's teaching makes the meaning of the prayers alive and clear.
There is usually plenty of street parking. Please be mindful that some spots have meters and time limits. The spots located directly in front on The Alameda are 4-hours but do have a meter that needs to be paid at the north end of the block.
Northbrae has a small parking lot used by the Church's staff and preschool during the week. Spaces will be reserved for those with Disability placards or license plates. Please let us know if you have a special need to access the parking lot.
If taking BART, get off at the downtown Berkeley stop and transfer to the AC Transit 18 bus going North toward Solano Ave and get off at The Alameda. AC Transit Bus Routes & Schedule
Comfortable clothing for a long day of sitting, standing, and moving. A tallit if you have one. On Yom Kippur Day, many people fast; water will be available for those who need it. Machzor (prayer book) is provided.
Yes. The Yom Kippur Day ticket covers the full day, but you are welcome to arrive and depart as your schedule allows. Each service within the day — Morning, Yizkor, and Neilah — is meaningful on its own.
We welcome children to attend services with their parents or guardians! Children are FREE for Torah of Awakening Members. To register children for free (members) or for a reduced ticket price, please contact lisa@torahofawakening.com.
Masks are welcome but not required. There will be a special Masks Only section for those who prefer to be seated near other masked people. Windows will be open for increased ventilation barring dangerous air quality. If you have any symptoms, please stay at home.
All services are wheelchair accessible. Seating in Haver Hall is on folding chairs and in the chapel on cushioned pews. If you require bringing your own chair, it will need to be set up at the front of the chapel. There will be a fragrance-free section of the sanctuary.
It takes your help to make these services happen! Please volunteer for a 1-hour shift (or more) to help out during the holidays. We really can't do it without you! Sign up to volunteer.
In addition to Rabbi Brian Yosef, Jeannette Ferber and Renée Benmeleh on vocals, Josh Miele on bass, Yari Mander and Craig Miller on percussion create the sounds of the BRIAH Sacred Music Ensemble. Various special musical guests will join us. Stay tuned for updates on teachers and additional guest service leaders.
Reserve Your Place
Please don't wait until the last minute — Your early registration helps us to plan. Reserve now and begin the inner preparation that makes these days what they are meant to be.