The High Holidays of 5787 were marked by moments of connection, presence and the strengthening of Jewish life in communities across Latin America.
In Natal, Brazil, the Centro Israelita do Rio Grande do Norte (CIRN) once again held Rosh Hashanah, Shabbat Shuvah and Yom Kippur services after decades. More than 120 people participated in the celebrations between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, marking a historic moment for the community.
The initiative was supported by the World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ), the World Zionist Organization (WZO) and UJR-AmLat, making it possible for a team of religious leaders to join the community.
The services were led by Rabbi Kelita Cohen, together with Morah Ida Katz, a rabbinical student at the Instituto Ibero-Americano de Formación Rabínica Reformista (IIFRR). Musical leadership was provided by Hazzan Jonathan Frate, from São Paulo, while Torah reading was led by Moreh Marcos Gandelsman, from Recife.
One of the special moments took place during the musical service, when Hazzan Jonathan Frate sang Adon Olam to the melody of “Asa Branca,” connecting Jewish tradition with the cultural identity of northeastern Brazil.
For CIRN, the celebration represents the revival of a tradition dating back to 1912, when the first Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services in Natal were held by Ukrainian Jews.
In Guatemala, the Adat Israel – Reform Judaism Guatemala community also celebrated Yom Kippur with the presence of Chazanit Carla Knijnik, who accompanied the community during the holiest and most solemn day of the Jewish calendar.
While each community has its own history, reality and identity, these moments are part of the same network connecting people, communities and leaders throughout Latin America.
The presence of professionals and religious leaders in communities is part of the work of UJR-AmLat and WUPJ to strengthen local Jewish life, build connections and create opportunities for each community to experience Jewish tradition in meaningful and contemporary ways.
From Natal to Guatemala, the High Holidays show the strength of Jewish life built in community, through collaboration and with an eye toward the future.
Shehecheyanu — for these moments and for everything we will continue to build together.
