(EXPERIENCE MAGAZINE) — Los Angeles, CA — As the sun sets on Friday evening, October 11, 2024, the Temple of the Arts at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills will open its doors for a profound observance of Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. This year, Rabbi David Baron has curated an extraordinary lineup of guests who will share their compelling stories of heroism, resilience, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
Yom Kippur, known as the Day of Atonement, is a sacred time for introspection, forgiveness, and community. It marks the culmination of the Ten Days of Repentance, which begin with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. This year’s services will commence at 8:00 p.m. on October 11 and continue the following day at 10:00 a.m., culminating in the Yizkor Memorial Service at approximately 12:30 p.m. Each service will be underscored by inspirational music and Rabbi Baron’s Living Sermon, which will highlight stories of courage and compassion amidst global strife.
At the musical helm will be the temple’s Music Director, Grammy Award-winning Composer, Four-Time Emmy Award-nominated Composer, ASCAP Board Member, Member of the Executive Committee of the Music Branches of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Science and the Television Academy and Vice President of the Alliance of Women Film Composers, Sharon Farber. Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur services this year will feature a 12-member choir composed of singers from Los Angeles Opera and the Los Angeles Master Chorale, and four instrumentalists.
Among the notable guests gracing this year’s services is Oz Davidian, a courageous farmer from Southern Israel who heroically saved 120 young people during the Hamas terrorist attack at the Nova Music Festival on October 7, 2023. His account of driving into danger to rescue festival attendees is a powerful testament to human bravery. Another powerful voice will be Yossi Levy, who, along with his family, shares their experiences as part of the 80,000 Israelis evacuated from their homes due to the ongoing Hezbollah rocket attacks on the Lebanon border. Their story brings to light the challenges faced by many in the region during these turbulent times.
Bishop Juan Carlos Mendez, a longstanding advocate against anti-Semitism and social injustice, will also speak. His decades of dedication to promoting understanding and unity among diverse communities exemplify the spirit of Yom Kippur. Moti Kahana, a philanthropist and humanitarian, will provide a firsthand account of the ongoing crisis in Gaza, shedding light on the realities faced by those in war-torn areas. His commitment to helping others is a reminder of the power of compassion in challenging times. Richard S. Hirschhaut, the Los Angeles Director of the American Jewish Committee, will address the rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses and the importance of advocacy in combating hate. His insights are crucial as the community grapples with these pressing issues.
On the afternoon of Yom Kippur, Rabbi Baron invites the public to participate in discussions with his special guests from 2:00 to 5:30 p.m. This engaging segment will feature personal stories that inspire hope and resilience, making it a valuable experience for all attendees.
The services will be enriched by the artistic talents of Broadway performer Cantor Ilysia J. Pierce and renowned cantor Hazzan Nathan Lam, alongside a 12-member choir from the Los Angeles Opera and the Los Angeles Master Chorale. Their stirring performances will elevate the spiritual atmosphere, creating a memorable backdrop for reflection and prayer.
The Temple of the Arts at the Saban Theatre, the largest arts and entertainment synagogue in the United States, serves as a vital hub for connection, creativity, and spiritual growth. This Yom Kippur, the temple invites both members and the broader community to come together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. Reservations are encouraged for both live services and the afternoon discussions, and the temple will provide a livestream option for members in good standing who are unable to attend in person. As we approach Yom Kippur, the stories shared by Rabbi Baron’s guests remind us of the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. This day of atonement offers a unique opportunity to reflect on our actions, seek forgiveness, and renew our commitment to compassion and understanding in our communities.
Join us at the Temple of the Arts for this transformative experience, where faith meets action, and where every story shared serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. For more information and to make reservations, please contact the temple office at 323-658-9100 or visit www.bhtota.org.
