Tisha B’Av (The 9th of Av) commemorates several moments of sadness and tragedy on the Jewish calendar, including the time when the Israelites learned that they would have to wander 40 years in the wilderness as well as the destruction of the First and Second Temples.

On Tisha B’Av, we observe the same restrictions that apply on Yom Kippur — no eating or drinking, no washing, no anointing, no wearing of leather shoes, and no sexual relations – beginning at sundown on Erev Tisha B’Av through the next day.

On the eve of Tisha B’av, we will chant Eikhah (Lamentations) as well as selected Kinot (elegiac poems). On Tisha B’Av morning, we refrain from wearing Tallit and Tefillin, a practice that is delayed until the afternoon service.

We will need six people present (in-person in the Chapel) and fasting to have the Torah and Haftarah readings at Minchah on Tisha B’Av.

If you know that you will be fasting and can attend, please contact Rabbi Helfand.