Rosh Chodesh August 2025: Preparing for the High Holidays and Reflecting on Forgiveness

Despite the sweltering August heat, 25 women came out to Elk Grove for Rosh Chodesh to celebrate the month of Elul. Since Elul is a period set aside for reflection and preparation for the High Holidays, the gathering centered on the themes of trust and forgiveness.

We began the evening by sharing a delicious vegetarian potluck meal, while catching up with old friends and meeting new ones.

Following dinner, the program started with a lively trust-building exercise similar to square dancing. While soothing music played, pairs maintained eye contact and palm contact while walking in a circle, then changed partners every few turns to ensure that everyone connected with everyone else. We all agreed it was a fun and impactful way to build trust and connect with others.

We then broke into small groups to reflect on forgiveness—considering to whom we may owe forgiveness, and from whom we might seek it in the coming year.

To close the program, everyone reconvened to discuss the significance of cleansing rituals in Judaism. We shared personal rituals that help us move forward or recover from challenging experiences.

Thanks to Susan Davini and Brinn Yterdal for co-facilitating the evening’s program, and to Ellen Savage for hosting.

The Rosh Chodesh group gathers on the first Wednesday of every other month.  Join us for the next Rosh Chodesh on October 8, 2025. Visit the Events page of our website for information.