2021 / 5782 High Holy Days Guide

GUIDE TO THE
HIGH
HOLY
DAYS
5782
2021
Everything you need to prepare for your High Holy Days experience.
L’shana Tovah Tikateyvu!

Happy New Year!
Dear PJTC Family,
As the 5782 High Holy Days approach, we hope that you and yours are healthy and safe. We are
excited to share our brochure for this year’s events.
After consulting with health experts and municipal authorities, listening to our members, and
much deliberation, PJTC decided on a “multi-access” approach for this holiday season. Those who
wish to attend in person may do so, while those who wish to Zoom in or livestream due to
distance, health reasons, or simply convenience may also do so. We are proud of the diversity of
our community, now in its centennial year, and are thrilled that more people than ever before will
have access to our uplifting services and programming.
We are delighted for you to join us! We have outlined the many opportunities, for all ages and
interests, during the Hebrew month of Elul to prepare your soul for the season ahead, as well as
the special moments we have in store during the holidays themselves. It is important that you
RSVP, no matter how you choose to join us, so that we may give you the most up-to-date
information on the best ways to connect.
And of course, all of this growth in opportunities to connect has benefitted from investment in
technology, time and training. If you believe in what we are doing, please consider supporting
PJTC as part of your High Holy Day commitment to community.
Thank you for being part of this holy community. We are excited to share this season with you!
With our blessings for a sweet and meaningful New Year,
Rabbi John Carrier, Cantor Ruth Berman Harris, and President Stacey Sharp
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

HIGH HOLY DAYS AT A GLANCE
Sept. 6 | 7:30pm Erev Rosh Hashanah
Sept. 7 | 9:00am Rosh Hashanah Day 1
| 10:30am* Torah Service
| 4:00pm [ LBSRS families ] Tashlich
| 5:00pm [ entire community ] Tashlich
see page 13 for Tashlich
CONTENT:
P. 2 Multi-Access High Holy Days
P. 4 Tips For Making Meaning
P. 6 Registration
P. 8 Getting Ready / Elul
P. 10 Pre-Holiday Events &
Opportunities
P. 12 Calendar of Events:
High Holy Days
P. 16 Youth & Family Activities
P. 18 Special Honors
P. 19 Community Support
P. 20 Calendar of Events:
Sukkot & Simchat Torah
P. 22 Leading With Gratitude
P. 24 Volunteers & Donors
Sept. 8 | 9:00am Rosh Hashanah Day 2
| 10:30am* Torah Service
Sept. 15 | 7:00pm Erev Yom Kippur [ Kol Nidre ]
Sept. 16 | 9:00am
Yom Kippur
| 11:00am* Torah Service
| 11:45am* Yizkor Service
| 2:00pm Meditation
| 4:00pm Rabbi’s Study Session
| 5:00pm Minchah
| 6:00pm Ne’ilah
| 7:30pm Havdalah
| 8:00pm Break-the-Fast
Sept. 21 | 9:30am Sukkot Services Day 1
Sept. 22 | 9:30am Sukkot Services Day 2
Sept. 28 | 9:30am
Sept. 29 | 9:30am
| 11:30am* Yizkor
see page 20 for add’l Sukkot social programming
Sh’mini Atzeret Services
| 5:30pm Community-Wide Simchat Torah Celebration
Simchat Torah Services
* These times are approximate.
For additional pre-High Holy Days programming, go to pages 10-11.
P. 1

Multi-Access
High Holy Days
Choosing What’s Right For You
We know that the Days of Awe may look and
feel different this year. Our spiritual practice of
gratitude has prepared us for this moment and
we are excited to start new traditions while
bringing back tried and true standards. We are
blessed to have the technology needed to
bridge our spiritual home in Pasadena to our
individual homes. With options to access services
and some programming in person as well as
online this year, we’ll do our best to help you
understand what to expect and how to prepare.
Please note that reservations are required
regardless, using this link. If your plans change
after the RSVP deadline of August 15, please call
the office and we will update your reservation.
All in-person policies and procedures described
in this brochure are subject to change by the
PJTC Safety & Security Task Force. We are
publishing this in mid-July, while uncertainty
about Covid-19 still lingers. For the most up-todate
policies from our Safety & Security Task
Force, click HERE.
If High
Holy Days
Were
Tomorrow...
in person services
will mean:
All seating will be assigned, with
a minimum of 3 feet distance
maintained between households.
We will do our best to honor Life
Seat holders while still following
distancing protocols.
Vaccinated households can
request to sit with other
households in their extended
family or pod without distancing;
please indicate your preference
when you RSVP using the High
Holy Days Registration Form HERE.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

Attendees ages 2+ must wear
masks while on the PJTC property.
The clergy, davening team, and
those performing a singing or
speaking honor from the Bimah
may temporarily remove their
masks while performing their
honor.
Please bring your own kippot and
tallitot, if you can, so that we may
limit the sharing of these items.
A small supply will be provided for
those who need to borrow them.
To reduce indoor crowding, we
encourage you to congregate
outside before and after services
rather than in the aisles.
If you choose to attend
remotely...
We want to make sure that you have what you
need in terms of technology/devices in order to
participate and to transform your home into a
spiritual space. You will have the option to
access services over Zoom, Facebook, Youtube
or Streamspot. Links will be sent once you’ve
registered by August 15.
It doesn’t have to be an
either/or!
You can sign up for some services in person,
and attend others from home! You’ll be able
to indicate which services you plan to attend
in person using the High Holy Days
Registration Form so we can be sure to save
a seat for you.
P. 3

Tips For
Making
Meaning
Whether in person or at home...
Get ready. No matter how and where you choose to pray, we highly
recommend spending Elul, the month before Rosh Hashanah, taking advantage of all
the “Getting Ready For the Holidays” programming PJTC is providing, described on pages 8-9.
Dress for the occasion. While many of us have become accustomed to attending online
services in our pajamas, occasions like the High Holy Days feel more special if you are able
to wear something that honors the holiness of the day. On Yom Kippur you might want to
wear white and non-leather shoes as a sign of purity. Wearing a tallit and your kippah will
engage you in the service even more. Helping any youth in your home plan ahead for what
they will wear for the High Holy Days, and explaining the importance of dressing up or why
we wear white, can be a meaningful way to prepare for services as a family.
Participate! That might mean singing your heart out (even to the screen!), clapping/tapping
to the beat, or it might mean closing your eyes for a moment of personal meditation. There is
no right or wrong way to pray.
Explore the machzor. If the Hebrew gets to be too much, there are many additional English
explanations and readings to look through on each page. Don’t hesitate to explore.
If you have children, take a look at our High Holy Day Youth & Family Programming on page 16
and make a plan to ensure that your whole family makes the most of their High Holy Days
experience. It is more important than ever for reservations to be made for youth programming.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

Pre-Holiday
Additional tips for at home...
Check your technology ahead of time. All the links you will need to
connect will be provided in advance to those who RSVP using the High Holy
Days Registration Form. We advise you to“try out” - and even bookmark - your links
ahead of time, so you will be prepared.
Clear your calendar. Clear your work and other obligations. You might find it helpful to print
and post the schedule found on page 1 of this brochure in a prominent place. Create
expectations for yourself (and your family) regarding potential distractions like cell phones
or email.
Find your space. Create a place in the house that is comfortable for sitting and viewing your
computer or TV. If youth are present in your home, you can use them as “consultants” to help
you decide how to create the right space for prayer. Many congregants over the past 16 months
found it very helpful to cast services onto their TV for an optimal experience. We are happy to
provide you with information about how to access the services through streaming devices
(Roku, AppleTV, Amazon Firestick) and smart TVs. A PJTC staff member or volunteer is available
if you need technical assistance at 626-798-1161.
Ensure you have the supplies you need. PJTC will provide you with a kippah, tallit and Machzor
Lev Shalem, our High Holy Days prayer book, if you request them in advance through our High
Holy Day Registration Form. You can pick up your supplies during our official supply pick up
drive-through event August 29, from 9:30am to 12:30pm, or set a pick-up time during the
following week by calling the PJTC office at 626-798-1161.
P. 5

Registration
High Holy Days
Please RSVP by filling out the High Holy Days Registration Form
by August 15 in order to receive full access to the PJTC High Holy Day 5782 Experience
for both in-person and virtual participation. Members have full access to all services and
programming, but registration is required.
PJTC is providing
online access to
services free of charge,
but a suggested
donation of $180 is
welcome and
encouraged.
Click HERE to make a onetime
donation, and be sure
to mention in the comments
that it is meant to support
online access to services.
In-person tickets:
Life Seat Holders & Social Hall Seating
Members - $0
Reserved Sanctuary Seats
Member - $180
Guests - $350
Social Hall Seating
Guests - $180
Non Member - $375
See page 19 for parking information.
If you need to make special arrangements, please email beryl@pjtc.net
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

If you are new to the community, we encourage you to take advantage of our
Gift Membership Program--your membership dues are free for the first year, and that includes access
to High Holy Days at PJTC! For more information on our Gift Membership Program, contact
melissa@pjtc.net or beryl@pjtc.net.
Ushers:
High Holy Days in person this year will require
more volunteers than ever to ensure both a
welcoming campus and appropriate additional
health and safety measures. If you are interested
in helping us provide a wonderful experience for
other congregants, please indicate your interest
in ushering when you fill out your High Holy
Days Registration Form. You may also contact
Head Usher Phil Callahan with questions, at
philsc@alumni.caltech.edu.
We will also need a few volunteers to give congregants technical assistance during
services. If you are willing to be on-call as a “Tech Usher” please email beryl@pjtc.net.
P. 7

Getting Ready For
The High Holy Days
ELUL @PJTC
Elul, the month of the Hebrew calendar
that immediately precedes Rosh Hashanah,
presents us with an opportunity to reflect
on the year that has passed in order to have
the best possible experience in the year to
come.
We do this through a spiritual technology
our Sages call Heshbon Hanefesh –
“accounting of the soul.”
All it requires is a little courage to take an honest inventory of what
went well for you over the last year, as well as ways in which you
might try to do better in the future. Every day in the month of Elul,
Rabbi Carrier will share a new question designed to help you in this
exploration, and over the course of four weeks we will focus on four
areas of responsibility:
- Your responsibility toward yourself
- Your responsibility toward your family and friends
- Your responsibility toward your community
- Your responsibility toward the broader world
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

This is important:
Elul@PJTC is not about making a list of errors and faults to beat
yourself up about; rather, it is about noticing with gratitude what
you have done well – and what has been done for you – as well as
discovering areas of improvement you can focus on in the coming
year. The work of this year is about refreshing your canvas and
choosing your colors for painting the masterpiece of your life.
We hope you will choose to join us on this journey!
Daily Elul Inspiration:
Receive a new message from Rabbi Carrier, daily for 30 days. Each message
contains a new question to help you look deep within, to gain a greater
understanding of who you are and what kind of person you want to be in the
new year. Sign up with the High Holy Days Registration Form.
Weekly Elul Sichot:
Join small group discussions, once per week, for the four weeks leading up to Rosh
Hashanah (August 9 through September 5). Imagine the whole community
having similar deep conversations to prepare ourselves for the holidays, just at
different days/times/locations. Both in-person and Zoom options will be available!
Sign up to meet new wonderful people, or get your friends together to join the
same group! Topics will complement the four weeks of Rabbi Carrier’s Daily Elul
Inspiration. Sign up with the High Holy Days Registration Form to see the
day/time/location options. Contact Director of Congregational Engagement
Melissa Levy, melissa@pjtc.net, with questions.
P. 9

Other Pre-Holiday
Events & Opportunities
Listen to the melodies of the season.
Cantor Ruth and the davening team will be recording a few of the prayers that we deeply
associate with the High Holy Days. Recordings will be accessible via the High Holy Day section
of the PJTC website soon. We encourage you to play these melodies in your home to begin
creating your spiritual space.
Judaism in the Home: High Holy Days Edition - August 29
Spend your morning at PJTC saying hello to friends old and new, participating in an art
project designed to help you reflect, grabbing a Kona Ice to start a sweet new year, getting
the supplies you need...and then stick around for some learning!
9:30AM to 12:30PM Pick up your High Holy Days Supply Kit
Contactless drive-through will be available, or you may stay and enjoy one of the many activities provided
for you at PJTC this morning!
- If you need a copy of the Machzor, a tallit, or a kippah be sure to indicate this on your High Holy Days
Registration Form.
- If you ordered additional supplies through our Judaism in the Home: High Holy Days Edition, this is your
opportunity to pick them up!
9:30AM to 11:30AM Express Yourself Through Art [Masks required]
Teshuva Rock Painting Project: Teshuva (repentance) is a big theme of the season. In a new tradition, we
invite the entire congregation to create their own Teshuva Painted Rock and be part of this beautiful,
community-building project. You can use words, symbols, colors, images - anything you feel represents
your wishes for the new year. We will place your inspirational rocks in Cindy’s Playground as a symbol that
we are all in this together. You can alternatively pick up your own personal supply kit on August 29,
between 9:30AM and 12:30PM, and complete your art project at home (just bring your painted rock back
any time before Yom Kippur), or attend our outdoor group rock painting session in person.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

S’lichot: Saturday, August 28
at 8pm in Galpert Sanctuary
S’lichot are special late-night penitential
poems and prayers designed to help us get
into the mindspace of repentance and
forgiveness. Join us for a special evening of
music, inspiration and introspection.
9:30AM-11:30AM Continued More Art Projects!
Make “Happy New Year” greeting cards and/or decorate our Tree of Life Welcome Banner!
We will supply the greeting card materials and the names and addresses of congregants
who would love a card from another PJTC member/family...then pop your cards in the
mail. Add a handprint to our Welcome Banner, a leaf and/or words of inspiration. We will
hang this cheerful community project at the PJTC entrance this High Holy Day season!
10:30AM-12:30PM Kona Ice
The Kona Ice Truck will be back to wish you a sweet new year! Enjoy your favorite flavor of Hawaiian
shaved ice from our own private Kona Ice truck in the PJTC parking lot. Contactless drive-through
available, or sit at one of our designated tables.
11:30AM-12:30PM Learn and Share Stories
With every Judaism in the Home event, we always incorporate a group educational activity. These
have been solely over Zoom for the past year. We are thrilled to now offer both in-person and Zoom
learning! Our goal is to give you tips and tricks to further prepare for the High Holy Days, and to teach
you more about the how and why of what we do. You will have the opportunity to learn with Rabbi
Carrier, Cantor Ruth, Rabbi Aimee or Melissa Levy; choose a group based on demographics/
educational area of interest. RSVP online using our High Holy Days Registration Form.
This entire event is FREE for PJTC Members and is open to all ages, the entire extended
family! Contact Director of Congregational Engagement Melissa Levy, melissa@pjtc.net, with
questions or if you’d like to bring a prospective member to join us for the morning.
P. 11

Calendar of Events
High Holy Days
Rosh Hashanah
Sept. 6 | 7:30pm Erev Rosh Hashanah
Sept. 7 | 9:00am Rosh Hashanah Day 1
| 10:30am* Torah Service
| 4:00pm [ LBSRS families ] Tashlich
| 5:00pm [ entire community ] Tashlich
Sept. 8 | 9:00am Rosh Hashanah Day 2
| 10:30am* Torah Service
Sept. 6-23 | Foothill Unity Food Drive
Sept. 10 | Last Day To Submit Ne’ilah Prayers
* These times are approximate.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

Tashlich
Tashlich, or “casting off,” is a ceremony usually performed on the afternoon of the first day of Rosh Hashanah. By
tossing breadcrumbs into a body of running water, we cast away the sins of our past as we strive to start anew.
While any running water will do (even a faucet at home!), it is PJTC’s tradition to come together as a community
for this ritual. Since Rosh Hashanah is so early this year, we will leverage the outdoor opportunity even further.
Religious school students and parents will meet at the LA Arboretum Zen Garden at 4pm for the first day of LBSRS in
the park! This will be an opportunity to get to know classmates and new teachers and enjoy some Rosh Hashanah
activities for students and parents alike. At 5pm, we invite the entire congregation to the Arboretum for
Tashlich-themed sessions led by Rabbi Carrier, Cantor Ruth, Melissa Levy and perhaps even a few USY leaders.
LBSRS students will continue with their teachers. At 5:30, we will all come together and perform the official Tashlich
ritual. Panko breadcrumbs will be provided.
Please note it is a 10-minute, flat walk from the parking lot to our meeting place inside the Arboretum. Arriving early
will help you make the most of your Tashlich experience. Let the PJTC office know if you need assistance.
Foothill Unity Food Drive
Please join us as we once again collect non-perishable items for Holiday Food Baskets for local families in need. If
you need a bag, you can pick one up at PJTC during the High Holy Days Drive Through on August 29, or after Rosh
Hashanah services. Please return your donations any time between Rosh Hashanah and September 23. If you wish to
make a tax deductible cash contribution, checks can be made out to Foothill Unity Center (Tax ID# 95-431817).
Thank you for helping those in need have a happy holiday season! And, thank you to Vicky Balmot for coordinating
the food drive!
Ne’ilah Prayers
Last year we began a new tradition: while the ark was open during the repetition of the Ne’ilah amidah, your
anonymous prayers for the coming year scrolled through on the screen. This year, we look forward to combining
this new virtual tradition with the long-beloved PJTC tradition of having your personal moment in front of the ark.
P. 13

Calendar of Events
High Holy Days
Yom Kippur
Sept. 15 | 7:00pm Erev Yom Kippur [ Kol Nidre ]
Sept. 16 | 9:00am Yom Kippur
| 11:00am* Torah Service
| 11:45am* Yizkor Service
| 2:00pm Meditation
| 4:00pm Rabbi’s Study Session
Sept. 16 | 5:00pm Minchah
| 6:00pm Ne’ilah
| 7:30pm Havdalah
| 8:00pm Break-the-Fast
* These times are approximate.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

We begin our observance of Yom Kippur.
The holiest day of the calendar year begins with the Kol Nidre evening service, around sundown. Fasting for Yom
Kippur begins shortly before sundown and ends shortly after sundown the following night.
The Yom Kippur morning services include regular morning prayers, plus special prayers and additional services only
found on Yom Kippur. The Torah service will begin at approximately 11:00am, followed by the Yizkor memorial service
at approximately 11:45am.
At 2:00pm, join us for meditation in Knell Chapel. The meditation will also be accessible via Zoom. A Zoom link will
be sent out to those who register using the High Holy Days Registration Form. Contact Susan Auerbach,
sauerbach2063@sbcglobal.net, with questions.
Then, at 4:00pm, join Rabbi Carrier for an interactive hour of Torah study on the themes of Yom Kippur.
Our afternoon Minchah service includes a reading of the book of Jonah.
The final Yom Kippur service is Ne’ilah, meaning “locking” or “closing.” As we approach the final moments of this holy
day, the gates of heaven close, and we hope our prayers have reached God. PJTC is excited to resume our custom of
inviting each person or household to ascend to the open ark for a moment of personal prayer. As part of High Holy
Days Registration Form, all participants will have the opportunity to submit prayers beforehand, to be displayed
anonymously on our livestream.
It is PJTC’s tradition to conclude services with Havdalah, inviting our congregants (especially children) to wave
glow sticks as we celebrate together. Glow sticks will be provided to those attending services in person and will also
be available during High Holy Days Supply Pick Up on August 29 for those children who want to celebrate from home.
Immediately following Havdalah, those attending services in person are invited to break the fast, courtesy of PJTC
Sisterhood, outdoors on Katz Terrace at 8pm.
P. 15

Youth & Family
Activities
Options For Youth During
High Holy Days Services
We’re offering a variety of options for youth to choose their
own High Holy Day Services adventure. Do you want to stay and
pray with your kids, and have the flexibility to let them run around?
Try the Prayground. Want to have time to nurture your own spirituality?
We hope to provide babysitting (RSVP required). Need a quiet moment with your
infant? Try the quiet room. All snacks need to be brought from home and clearly labeled
with your child’s name. Please see elsewhere for service times (so you know what to pack).
For everyone’s safety, youth may not wander the grounds. See below for more details on
what they CAN do!
The Prayground:
We are thrilled to offer this new
opportunity in the Cindy’s
Playground area! Parents and kids
can participate in services via a
livestream screen on one side of
the prayground, while youth have
the freedom to move about, play
with holiday-friendly toys and
games, and even hop on the
playground itself. Supervision of
children 12 and under is a must; as
long as you have RSVP’d for inperson
services, you may visit the
Prayground anytime services are
happening!
Babysitting:
We hope to make babysitting
available for pre-K - 6th grade
for Rosh Hashanah and Yom
Kippur, with the exception of
Yom Kippur afternoon/Ne’ilah
services. Children will remain
in small groups in classrooms,
supervised by vaccinated
LBSRS faculty, teen assistants,
and other staff. Sign-ups are
essential: please use the PJTC
High Holy Days Registration
Form HERE. In mid-August, we
will contact you about
availability of this option.
Quiet Room:
Right off the PJTC Social
Hall is the Lounge, where
parents/guardians with
babies who need to eat/
breastfeed/nap/move/
play quietly may do so
while also watching
services on a tv monitor.
This option is available
during all services, and
no reservations are
necessary. Two to three
families will be permitted
at a time, with masks
required for ages 2+.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

Preparing For The High Holy Days
PJTC’s Judaism in the Home programming is a great way for families
to learn more about the holidays and help children of all ages feel connected.
Sign up when you register for PJTC High Holy Days online. More information
on pages 10-11.
USY & Kadima: Do you have children in grades 3-12? It’s time to register
them for USY & Kadima, our youth groups! Register HERE. USY is tentatively
planning a trip to Universal Studios right before Rosh Hashanah - register to
make sure you get on the email lists!
Louis B. Silver Religious School (LBSRS): registration for 2021-22 is
open and our first day of school for everyone is Tuesday, September 7th, (Day 1
of Rosh Hashanah!) when students and parents will have opportunities to
meet teachers, reconnect with one another, and do some Rosh Hashanah
learning with faculty and senior staff. Find more information and register
your child(ren) for LBSRS HERE!
We also encourage families to join us for Tashlich (see page 13),
participate in our mini Sukkah raffle (see page 20), and join us for our Simchat
Torah Party (see page 21).
P. 17

Special Honors
Opportunities
Memorial
Plaques
Memory is a core
value and
commandment
in Judaism.
When a loved one passes, we keep their memories
alive not only in our hearts, but with a permanent
commemoration in the form of a bronze plaque, next
to the entrance to Galpert Sanctuary. They are lit up
during Yom Kippur and the week of your loved one’s
Yahrzeit, the anniversary of their death. If you are
interested in purchasing a plaque for $450, please
indicate this on your High Holy Days Registration Form.
PJTC has a tradition of publishing a Book of
Remembrance in which we list the names of those
in our circle of family and friends who have died. If
PJTC sent out a condolences note on your family’s
behalf this last year, the name of your loved one
will be included in the Book of Remembrance
along with the names of past members of the PJTC
community who are on the Memorial Plaques at
the entrance to Galpert Sanctuary. If you would like
to include the names of additional loved ones who
have passed or receive a physical copy of the Book
of Remembrance, please make a donation
($36/each) when filling out your High Holy Days
Registration Form.
Book Of
Remembrance
On Yom Kippur, it is
customary to honor the
memory of our departed
loved ones.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

Community Support
Sisterhood & Men’s Club
New Year Greetings & Membership Directory
Sisterhood’s New Year Greetings and Membership Directory offers an opportunity to share your good
wishes with our community as we enter into the new year 2021-22 / 5782!
This publication will include community greetings, business sponsors and a directory of current temple
membership. For a donation of as little as $18.00, you can be included in this annual tradition of sending
greetings to your synagogue community. Business ads start at $40.00. All proceeds fund Sisterhood’s
ability to provide financial support to PJTC programming and activities throughout the year.
By this time, you should have received order forms in the mail, or you can use the linked forms above.
Should you have any questions, contact Ruth Kaye at (626) 578-0415 or kayeruth10@gmail.com.
This publication will be available for pick up beginning with High Holy Day services, then in the PJTC office.
And, watch your mail and PJTC email blasts for information about Sisterhood's annual Challah Fundraiser!
Shuttle Service By Men’s Club / Accessible Parking
Those needing accessible parking may reserve a space in the PJTC lot by using the High Holy Days
Registration Form. All others will park in the surrounding neighborhood or in the St. James United
Methodist Church parking lot at 2033 E. Washington Blvd, where a private shuttle service, partially
underwritten by PJTC Men's Club, will take congregrants to and from the synagogue.
We hope you will support Sisterhood and Men’s Club by joining or renewing your membership.
To become a Sisterhood member or renew your membership, click HERE.
To become a Men's Club member or renew your Men's Club membership, click HERE.
P. 19

Calendar Of Events
Sukkot
Sept. 21 | 9:30am Sukkot Services Day 1 Sept. 22 | 9:30am Sukkot Services Day 2
Enjoy the PJTC Sukkah
Sukkot begins at sundown on Monday, September 20 and ends at sundown on Monday, September 27. During
the week of Sukkot, you may reserve a time for your family and friends to gather in the PJTC Sukkah. We also
invite you to join us for a BYO Shabbat Dinner in the Sukkah on Friday, September 24, before Shabbat services.
Lulav & Etrog Sets
Known as the “Festival of Tabernacles” or “Festival of Booths,” Sukkot
celebrates the end of the harvest and recalls the Israelites’ time
in the desert. It is customary to build an outdoor shelter or hut
and to hold and shake a Lulav (a combination of palm, myrtle and
willow) and Etrog (yellow citron fruit). We are offering Lulav & Etrog
sets for use in your daily Sukkot celebrations. You can order
through the High Holy Days Registration Form HERE.
$55 for the regular set and $60 for the deluxe set.
You will be notified when your order is ready for pick up at PJTC.
Invite Others To Join You!
Got a sukkah? It is a mitzvah to invite guests into it! Want to visit a sukkah and
meet other congregants? After so many months of separation, we want to encourage
congregants to focus on this particular mitzvah - it’s a Sukkah-Palooza! Use the High
Holy Days Registration Form to sign up to host a Sukkot meal at your residence. More
details for those wishing to visit a congregant’s sukkah for a meal will be coming soon.
Support The Sukkot Raffle
PJTC has five indoor, pop-up sukkot for children. We are raffling them off for tzedakah! Half of
the proceeds will go to PJTC USY’s Tzedakah Fund, and half to Union Station Homeless Services.
Donate in multiples of $18 for your chance to win! More info to come after Yom Kippur.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

Simchat Torah
Sept. 28 | 9:30am Sh’mini Atzeret Services
| 11:30am* Yizkor
| 5:30pm Community-Wide Simchat Torah Celebration
Sept. 29 | 9:30am Simchat Torah Services
* These times are approximate.
On Simchat Torah, we complete the Torah cycle and begin again. PJTC has a
wonderful tradition of unrolling the entire Torah and having recent B’nai Mitzvah
students read part of their Torah portion. This year, on Erev Simchat Torah, we are
having an extra special Simchat Torah Party, with the opportunity for both
youth and adults who
became B’nai Mitzvah during the pandemic
to read in person, with
their peers and community for the
first time.
There will be dancing,
music, food - a party not to
be missed, and a great
way to show your support
for our newly-minted B’nai
Mitzvah. Mark your calendars
for 5:30 PM on September 28
and join our...
Simchat Torah Party!
P. 21

Leading With
Gratitude
We are so glad you are part of the
PJTC family.
The pandemic created many challenges for PJTC,
but we strive to rise to every occasion and bring you
more opportunities than ever to connect and find meaning.
Thank you for choosing to be a member of our congregation
and for your dedication to our synagogue and to Jewish life.
You sustain us - we would be nothing without you!
Membership and dues represent about 40% of our annual revenue. To keep our
doors open, the most important part of our budget comes from additional voluntary
contributions.
We need your help.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

As you know, we welcome all who walk
through our doors seeking a Jewish home
to pray, to learn, to connect and to celebrate
with us. Please contribute to our Annual
Appeal. Only through this additional giving
can we continue to function as a vital
synagogue community, welcoming to all.
So many of our families have been financially
impacted by the pandemic. Every gift - no matter the
amount - is needed, appreciated, and will be put to the
very best use. If you are feeling blessed and able,
consider joining our Guardians program (those who pledge
$750 or more over and above their dues).
See details about the Guardians on our website: www.pjtc.net.
Thank you so very much for your kind consideration.
We do hope we can count on you.
Please click here to make your gift online and let us know in the “comment” section what
aspect of the community most inspires your support.
P. 23

In Honor of
Volunteers
The PJTC community thrives on and is sustained by the dedication and
passion of congregants who give freely of their time, efforts and talents.
Thank you to our volunteers for giving so much of yourselves during the past year to various
congregational activities including but not limited to:
Board of Directors
PJTC Sisterhood
PJTC Men’s Club
Social Justice Committee
Adult Education Committee
Religious School Committee
Youth Programs Committee
USY Board & Kadima Committee
Interfaith Study Group
Religious Affairs Committee
Gabbaim, Torah Readers and Service Leaders
High Holy Day Ushers
Discussion Leaders for Rosh Hashanah, Elul,
Thanksgiving and Counting the Omer
PJTC Hiking Leaders
PJTC Davening Team
Social Hall Speakers and Hosts
Capital Campaign Construction Projects Task Force
Facilities Committee
Centennial Committees
Purim CARnival Volunteers
Reopening Task Force
Safety & Security Committee
Membership Committee
All those who sponsored and/or delivered
holiday and shiva meals, siddurim, greeting
cards, Purim gift baskets, holiday supplies and
more to those in need of support or a smile.
Office Volunteers
Shabbat Greeters, Oneg/Kiddush Volunteers
Budget Committee
Ohr Tamid Committee
Meditation Groups
Thinking Buddy Task Force
Listening Session Participants
Flame Volunteers
Kallah Planning Group
Second Night Seder Leaders
Union Station, Foothill Unity, Friends In Deed,
and Women’s Room Volunteers
We value your time and devotion. This is certainly not an exhaustive list of all the ways our
members contribute to the vibrancy of PJTC. We would not be the strong community we have
been, and we certainly would not have thrived during this most difficult year, without
everyone’s efforts.
If you wish to get more involved and give of your time and expertise in the coming year,
please contact Director of Congregational Engagement, Melissa Levy at melissa@pjtc.net.
www.pjtc.net/form/high-holy-days-2021

Pre-Holiday
Donor
Contributions
PJTC also gratefully recognizes the financial contributions of our donors
who are so important to sustaining the congregation and community
activities now and into the future.
Shomrei Zahav
Anonymous
Michael & Mary Ann Bernath
Bonnie Buratti & Kai Lam
Ezra & Marisa Callahan
Jesse & Leah Duker
Steven & Sandy Hartford
Clark & Karen Linstone
Matt & Sara Michelson
Mickey & Lee Segal
Louise Wannier
Jonathon & Sarah Weisz
Alan & Sandy Whitman
Benefactor
Douglas & Keri Axel
Joseph & Rebecca Johnson
Diplomat
Nadav & Anat Bar-Chaim
Ira & Virginia Blitz
Phil & Judy Callahan
Geoffrey & Jennifer DeBoskey
David & Gail Snyder
Vance & Pearl Tyree
Patron
Bryan & Marina Jick
Cathy Krasner
Bryan Langholz & Susan Auerbach
David & Susan Lorin
Steven & Beth Roth
Erich Schlecht & Deborah Noble
Tammy & Michael Silver
Jack & Deborah Singer
Aaron & Valerie Weiss
Friends
Neil Brown & Karen Hochman Brown
Seth & Hadar Cohen
Michael Friedman & Elizabeth Short
Karen Gross
Arlene (Sue) Hogan
Rabbi Gilbert Kollin & Cynthia Cohen
Jeffrey & Anita Landau
Rabbi Joshua & Franci Levine Grater
Herbert & Karin Meiselman
Jerome Metivier & Julie Sonigo
Stuart & Stacy Miller
Michael Ostroff & Joanne Topol
Josh & Janice Pais
Friends Continued
Martha Ruffman
Elliot & Marcia Sainer
Todd & Stacey Sharp
Randy & Mona Shulman
Sandra Sonies & Harold Kern
Edie Taylor
Ohr Tamid Society
(PJTC’s Planned Giving)
Anonymous
Phil & Judy Callahan
Melvin & Barbara z"l Cohen
Steve & Sandy Hartford
Carolyn Kunin
Jeff & Anita Landau
Barbara Levinson
Clark & Karen Linstone
Brian & Andrea Mark
Susan McCoin
Josh & Jan Pais
Mickey & Lee Segal
Jack & Debby Singer
Art z"l & Connie Taus
Fred & Lori Rotenberg
If we missed your name, please let Beryl know (beryl@pjtc.com) so we can adjust our records.
P. 25

HIGH
HOLY
DAYS
5782
2021
TO DO LIST
REGISTER BY AUGUST 15!
RSVPs are required to participate in PJTC’s High Holy Days services
and programming, by filling out the High Holy Days Registration
Form online HERE. Should you need assistance filling out the form,
please call the office at (626) 798-1161 and we will be happy to
assist you.
The High Holy Days Registration Form allows you to:
RSVP to attend any or all services, with options for in-person and online
Make a donation to our Annual Campaign
Reserve handicap parking
Upload a photo for added security
Sign up for daily Elul emails from Rabbi Carrier
Sign up for weekly Elul discussion groups
Sign up for Judaism in the Home: High Holy Days Edition
Indicate your need for a Machzor, kippah or tallit to make the most of services from home
Express interest in babysitting, if we are able to make it available
Order a Memorial Plaque
Order a copy of the Book of Remembrance / Ensure your loved one’s name is included
Express interest in being an usher
Share your Ne’ilah prayers
Order a lulav and etrog
Sign up to host a meal in your Sukkah
Looking to donate without filling out the rest of the registration information? Click HERE.
Registration for Sukkot & Simchat Torah services and programming will be made available later this summer.