The observance of the High Holidays, or "Days of Awe," is a very special time in the Kehila calendar that sets the tone for the Community throughout the year.

The Kehila and Rabbi David Shneyer hold High Holiday observances that are open to the greater Washington, DC, Jewish community. Reb David leads the services, and Kehila members participate on the bimah and in other capacities. The New Kehila Makhzor, compiled and edited by Reb David, is used as the prayer book for our services.

The High Holiday services are held in the auditorium of a Montgomery County high school on erev Rosh Hashana and on the first day of Rosh Hashana, and an outdoor service in Rock Creek Park is held on the morning of the second day of Rosh Hashana. Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur day services are held at the high school.

As part of our tradition of Tzedakah, Kehila members and the larger community attending the Yom Kippur services bring donations of clothing and food, which are delivered to local social service programs for the needy.

A separate, special program and service is held for younger children on the first day of Rosh Hashanah and on Yom Kippur day. A light break fast is provided for all immediately after the final blowing of the shofar on Yom Kippur.

Kehila members receive their tickets as part of their membership and are expected to volunteer their time to assist the High Holiday committee in various tasks. Tickets are available to non-members for a suggested donation.