GUIDE TO THE HIGH HOLY DAYS
INDIANAPOLIS HEBREW CONGREGATION
5787 | 2026
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5787 | 2026
The High Holy Days evoke memories of many prayers, melodies, and experiences. But none is as profound, nor more visceral, than the sounds and sights of the shofar, blasted traditionally one hundred times during these days. The shofar is our wake-up call to pay attention to the messages of the days and to rouse ourselves out of the slumber of everyday life.
This year, we have taken quite literally the Torah’s command to hear the sounds of the shofar. Interestingly, the mitzvah is not to blow the shofar, but to hear it, and to pay attention to the sounds. The shofar reminds us of the brokenness of our world and encourages us to feel the brokenness of our own hearts.
Hearing the sounds of the shofar’s call reminds us of so much more than just the themes of Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur. They transcend any single moment and call to us from across time and space from distant lands our people once inhabited. Hearing the sounds of the shofar’s call also reminds us of our commitment to build a strong community now for the future of our people, both here in Indianapolis and around the world.
In the days to come, we will encounter many familiar prayers and songs of the season. Hopefully, we will all come back to the realization that our lives are not our own, that we live and breathe as small parts of a much larger whole, and that we are all responsible for one another. The shofar calls us to this truth, reminding us of the many ways our lives are intertwined as we hear the sounds together.
Hayom Harat Olam, the liturgy calls. Today, the world is created anew. The shofar is both an ancient sound and a brand new call. Today is our day, the shofar beckons, to begin to make the changes which will make our lives richer, and our world better for us having been here. Ultimately, the shofar’s call is designed to inspire us to action through prayer, and to stay with us as we leave the service and begin this New Year with hope and optimism.
May the shofar inspire us to hear its call, and to respond with full hearts and minds. And may this year be filled with blessings for us all.
We welcome you and your friends and family to join with our beautiful IHC community. The staff, leadership, and clergy have been working hard to ensure meaningful experiences for all our members and every guest, of every age and stage. We hope you will find the pages of this book filled with rich and varied services and programs (and childcare) to inspire us all for these Yamim Noraim (Days of Awe).
Whether you join us in person, stream services from our website, or listen on the radio with WICR 88.7 FM, it will be so very meaningful for us to feel as one on these Holy Days.

L’shanah Tovah – blessings for a sweet and good New Year!
—Rabbi Brett Krichiver






As we prepare to enter the High Holy Days of 5787, we are invited to “Hear the Call of the Shofar”— to listen deeply: to tradition, to one another, and to the stirrings within ourselves that call us toward reflection, renewal, and connection.
I’ve learned that the sound of the shofar is both ancient and immediate. It awakens us. It reminds us to pause amid the noise and distractions of everyday life and return to what matters most— community, compassion, purpose, and direction.
At Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, we answer that call together. We invite every member of our community to participate fully in this sacred season—bring your family, invite guests, and share in the experience of the Days of Awe with us. Whether you have celebrated these holy days your entire life with IHC or are joining us for the first time, we want you to feel welcomed, embraced, and connected.
As in years past, all congregants are asked to register in advance for High Holy Day services, and information about registration and attendance is included in this publication. We remain committed to providing an environment that is spiritually meaningful, warm, and safe for all who enter our doors, supported by thoughtful security measures and the care of our clergy, staff, volunteers, and community partners.
For those unable to join us in person, services will continue to be available through our professional livestream and again on WICR 88.7FM, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience this sacred season in the way that is most meaningful and accessible to them.
For me, “Hear the Call of the Shofar” is a reminder to slow down and truly listen—to the traditions that ground us, to the people who surround us, and to the values that guide us forward. The High Holy Days create space for reflection in ways that feel increasingly rare, and each year I find myself grateful for the opportunity to experience that sense of connection alongside this community. Serving IHC continues to be one of the great privileges of my life, and during this sacred season, I’m especially reminded of the strength, compassion, and spirit that define our congregation. May the call of the shofar inspire each of us to listen with open hearts, to reconnect with our highest values, and to enter the new year with hope, purpose, and peace.

L’Shana Tova, —Peter Smithhisler, Executive Director
The call of the shofar brings us together as a Jewish community in shared prayer, reflection, and tradition. These sacred High Holy Days connect us across generations and call us to renewal and contemplation, strengthening our commitment to community and to one another.
Our clergy, staff, security team, and volunteers have spent many months preparing for this holiday season to create meaningful experiences for congregants and guests of all ages— in our sanctuary, at Goldman Union Camp Institute, throughout our city, and online. Wherever you choose to hear the call of the shofar and observe these Holy Days, we look forward to sharing those moments with you.
But Rosh HaShanah is not a destination; it is a beginning. Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation is here every day to support Jewish exploration and inspire action through Jewish values.
We are present for one another equally in moments of celebration and joy and in times of sorrow, challenge, and need. As our spiritual home, IHC sustains Jewish life across generations. As we enter the New Year, our clergy, staff, and lay leaders look forward to welcoming you and walking alongside you through the year ahead. Thank you for your commitment to Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation. You are an essential link in keeping our sacred community strong.
On behalf of our Board of Directors, L’Shanah Tovah U’Metukah—may you be inscribed and sealed for a good and sweet year.

—Jennifer Vigran, IHC Board President
If you are planning to join us in person, here is what you need to know:
You must register in advance for any services at IHC. Pre-registration is also required for the Rosh HaShanah Retreat at GUCI. If you are only joining via livestream, there is no need to register. You can find both forms to register at ihcindy.org/highholydays.
• Registration will open to IHC members and active conversion students on Sunday, August 2.
• Registration will open to the public on Monday, August 17. Please consider a minimum donation of $36 per guest/per service.
• To receive lunch at the Rosh HaShanah Retreat, you must register by Sunday, August 30.
• Childcare will be available for our 11:45 a.m. services on Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur for an $18 fee per child/per service. You must reserve childcare by Monday, September 7 using the registration form at ihcindy.org/highholydays.
If you have questions or need assistance with the registration form, please call the IHC Office during normal business hours at 317-255-6647.
• Parking will be in our South Parking Lot in the traditional nose-to-tail formation, unless otherwise directed
• Be prepared for security screenings, including bag searches
• Backpacks will not be permitted
• Bring a sweater (It can be chilly in the sanctuary!)
Bring IHC’s High Holy Day services into your home. You can livestream the High Holy Day services that take place at IHC on our website at ihcindy.org/streaming. You do not need to register to attend our services virtually.
Each year, we are proud to broadcast our traditional High Holy Day Services on WICR 88.7-FM, including services for Erev Rosh HaShanah, Rosh HaShanah Morning, Kol Nidre, and Yom Kippur Morning. We will also broadcast our Yizkor service at 4 p.m. on Yom Kippur.
IHC’s Caring Community works to support congregants in times of need. During the High Holy Days, they focus on connecting our homebound congregants to our IHC observances. This year, they are offering delivery of loaned prayer books and purchases from the IHC Sisterhood Gift Shop to our homebound community. They will also visit homebound congregants during the High Holy Days with gifts to help them mark the seasonal celebration. Caring Community is here to assist anyone who is struggling to access a livestreamed service. For assistance from our Caring Community, please get in touch with our Caring Community Chair, Andrea Burnett, at ihc.caringcommunity@gmail.com or call 317-721-3780.
Memorializing loved ones is a pivotal part of Jewish tradition, especially on Yom Kippur. In keeping with this custom, the IHC Brotherhood publishes the Elmer Wohlfeld Memorial Book of Remembrance each year. This is a great opportunity to honor your loved ones, give tzedakah in their memory, and have their names listed among the many generations that built our community. If you are joining us in person for our Yizkor service, you can receive a book there. If not, you can find a digital version of the book at ihcindy.org/highholydays. Please confirm your list of loved ones to be included in this year’s book, along with your contribution, by Wednesday, September 2. Visit ihcindy.org/memorial for the online form.
IHC offers childcare for children aged 1-8 for an $18 fee per child/per service. When you complete your High Holy Day registration form, you will have the option of reserving childcare for the 11:45 a.m. traditional services you plan to attend. Please register by Monday, September 7, to reserve a spot.
Beginning Wednesday, September 2, the Sisterhood Gift Shop will resume non-summer hours, Wednesday through Friday, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Gift Shop is also always open before Shabbat services on Fridays at 5:15 p.m. and during JLP on Sunday mornings. If you are unable to shop during our regular hours, you can schedule a time to shop by emailing ihcsisterhoodgiftshop1@gmail.com or by calling Bonnie Foster at 317-697-5642.
Sweeten your High Holy Days with round challahs from IHC Sisterhood (baked by Singing Crust Bakery)—and honey from Haute Honey Farms. Place your order by September 1 at 5 p.m., then swing by IHC to pick up your goodies on Thursday, September 10, 11 a.m.–2 p,m. Every dollar raised goes right back to IHC through Sisterhood grants—supporting programs like our Jewish Learning Program, Tot and Family Shabbatot, camp scholarships, and enhancing Shabbat and High Holy Day experiences for our community. Visit https://ihc-sisterhood.dub.link/challah-honey to order by September 1.
SELICHOT—SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
Joint Services with Beth El-Zedeck at IHC | 7:00 p.m.
Hear the sound of the shofar and welcome in the High Holy Days. Join us for a combined Selichot service with clergy from both IHC and Beth El-Zedeck, as well as a special screening of Shalom Bollywood: The Untold Story of Indian Cinema. The program begins at 7 p.m. with services starting at 9 p.m.
EREV ROSH HASHANAH —FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
Traditional Service | 7:30 p.m.
We usher in the Days of Awe with beautiful songs and traditions. This service helps us enter a space where we can both contemplate the year that has passed and prepare to enter the new year.
ROSH HASHANAH—SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
Rosh HaShanah Retreat | 9 a.m. at Goldman Union Camp Institute (GUCI)
Our Rosh HaShanah retreat is designed to help you hear the call of the shofar in an informal setting. The retreat will begin with Rosh HaShanah Services at the GUCI outdoor chapel (weather permitting), followed by lunch. In the afternoon, you can participate in a range of activities for adults, families, and children. The day will conclude with Tashlich at 3 p.m. and Havdalah at 4 p.m.
The cost ofthe retreat is $40 perperson. Financial assistance is available to ensure all mayattend. Please contact the clergyoffice if you are in need of assistance. Register early, as spots fill up quickly. Register and pay by Sunday, August 30, to receive lunch.
Tot Service | 9 a.m.
Designed for families with young children from preschool to kindergarten, this fun and interactive experience brings meaning to this special time of year for our youngest congregants. While this experience is intended for children under five years of age, all are welcome.
Family Service | 9:30 a.m.
This multi-generational service is an approachable way for all to be introduced to our Rosh HaShanah songs and traditions. This service is particularly meaningful for school-aged children and their families.
Traditional Service | 11:45 a.m.
The shofar calls us to begin the New Year with introspection, meaning, and most of all, hope. Our traditional service joins beautiful songs with reflective prayer. Hear the blast of the shofar, both celebratory and awakening, as we transition through the Days of Awe.
Tashlich and Havdalah | 3 p.m. at GUCI
Finish the day at GUCI as we symbolically cast away our sins through the tradition of tashlich and close Rosh HaShanah with Havdalah. All are welcome to attend (registration for the retreat is not required).
ROSH HASHANAH SECOND DAY—SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
Join us “out and about” to hear the call of the shofar at the time and location of your choosing:
• 10 a.m. | Shofar Blowing at IHC
• 11 a.m. | Family Picnic (bring your own lunch) with Shofar Blowing & Tashlich in Carmel
Since the second day of Rosh HaShanah falls on a Sunday, we are excited to invite you to join our family picnic (no family required). Please bring your own lunch as we gather for tashlich and to hear the shofar.
KEVER AVOT—SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
The ancient custom of Kever Avot consists of visiting the graves of our ancestors. It is said that our souls are elevated during the High Holy Days, making it a special time to visit the resting place of loved ones.
• 2 p.m. | IHC North Cemetery (1300 E 161st Street)
• 2 p.m. | IHC South Cemetery (40 W Kelly Street)
EREV YOM KIPPUR—SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Alternative Kol Nidre Experience | 5:30 p.m.
A dramatic reinvention of the traditional Kol Nidre service. Come prepared to experience something new, to be challenged, and to explore the conventional themes of Yom Kippur using music, meditation, and theater. Though this is not a Kol Nidre service, this experience will include selections from the Kol Nidre prayer.
Traditional Kol Nidre Service | 7:30 p.m.
The haunting melody of the Kol Nidre prayer is ancient and beautiful. In great contrast to the shofar’s blast, the Kol Nidre prayer sounds like a great exhale, moving our minds and souls into a reflective space. The service continues with a variety of prayers meant to guide us in communal atonement.
YOM KIPPUR —MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
Meditative, Musical Service | 9 a.m. at Goldman Union Camp Institute
Hear the call of the shofar through the sounds of nature. Immersed in the beauty of Goldman Union Camp Institute, we will bring spirituality to our traditional liturgy in song. Join us in this meditative and peaceful outdoor space. Space is limited, so please register ahead of time.
Tot Service | 9 a.m
Families with young children, from preschool to kindergarten, will feel inspired by this Yom Kippur experience, bringing meaning and understanding at an appropriate age level. While this experience is intended for children under five years of age, all are welcome.
Family Service | 9:30 a.m.
This multi-generational experience is designed for school-aged children and their families. The melodies transport us, and the stories and prayers connect us to the meaning of this day.
Traditional Service | 11:45 a.m.
On Yom Kippur, we come together to reflect on our shortcomings and consider ways to grow, individually and as a community, in the coming year. Chant our ancient niggunim and once again hear the call of the shofar as its blasts guide us from who we have been to who we should be.


Healing Service | 1:30 p.m.
This moving service is intended to bring comfort and healing through music, readings, and prayer.
Learning Session | 2:45 p.m.
Join us to learn about a topic related to the High Holy Days and find personal meaning through this session.
Yizkor Service | 4 p.m.
On the afternoon of Yom Kippur, we reflect upon and honor the memory of our loved ones.
N’ilah/Havdalah | 5 p.m.
We mark the separation between Yom Kippur and the rest of the year, finding special meaning in the final blasts of the shofar. (Challah and juice will be available after the service to break the fast.)
FOR EASY ACCESS TO OUR SERVICES AND EXPERIENCES, PLEASE VISIT IHCINDY.ORG/HIGHHOLYDAYS.
SUKKOT BEGINS AT SUNDOWN ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, AND CONTINUES THROUGH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2
Watch the Weekly Update and IHC’s social media pages for details on different ways to connect in the sukkah.
BUILDING OUR SUKKAH
The IHC Brotherhood, along with volunteers from the congregation, will build our sukkah for the festival of Sukkot. Look out for updates on how to volunteer as Sukkot approaches.
SUKKOT SHABBAT: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 | 6:15 P.M.
Celebrate “Sukkot Shabbat” on Friday, September 25. Sukkot Shabbat is a familyfriendly opportunity to celebrate the fall and enjoy the bounty of the land around us. Following services, the celebration continues in the sukkah with Oneg Shabbat and an opportunity to shake the lulav and etrog.
SUKKOT CELEBRATION WITH DAN NICHOLS
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 | 7 P.M.
Enjoy a concert from musician Dan Nichols and celebrate Sukkot.
THE PINK SUKKAH: A CANOPY OF CARE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 | 6 P.M.
Join the IHC Sisterhood for an evening honoring Sukkot and breast cancer awareness through community, reflection, and support. The program features a symbolic “Link Ceremony,” a panel of survivors and experts, and a nourishing “Superfood” dinner. Visit https://ihc-sisterhood.dub.link/pink-sukkah for more information.
SIMCHAT TORAH BEGINS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, AT SUNDOWN
FESTIVAL SERVICE WITH YIZKOR: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 | 10:30 A.M.
This traditional service honors our loved ones who have died in recent days and in years past. On Sukkot, as well as on Passover, Shavuot, and Yom Kippur, we gather for the traditional festival service that includes the yizkor prayers.
EREV SIMCHAT TORAH SHABBAT: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 | 6:15 P.M.
Join us for our annual Simchat Torah celebration as we read the last verses of Torah and roll the scroll back to the beginning. Sing and dance with the Sefer Torah as we rejoice in another cycle of our ancestral story and the great gift that is Torah.




Each year, the sound of the shofar calls us back—to reflection, to renewal, and to one another. Its voice is ancient, but its message remains contemporary. It asks us to pause and consider who we are, what we value, and how we show up for the people and communities that matter most in our lives.
At Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, answering that call happens in countless ways every day. It happens when children fill our classrooms with curiosity and joy. When our clergy offer comfort during life’s hardest moments and celebration during life’s most meaningful ones. When friendships are formed over Shabbat dinners, when music fills our sanctuary, when volunteers step forward to serve, and when congregants of every age find connection, purpose, and belonging within this sacred community.
None of this happens by accident.
It happens because generations of congregants before us answered the call to sustain and strengthen IHC—not only for themselves, but for future generations. Their generosity created the congregation we cherish today. Now it is our turn.
The High Holy Day Appeal is one of the most meaningful ways we come together to support the life of our congregation. Donations to the appeal provide essential support for our annual operating budget while also making innovation and new opportunities possible. They allow IHC to continue evolving, growing, welcoming, and serving our community in ways that are both enduring and forward-looking.
Most importantly, every contribution is an expression of gratitude—for this congregation, for the relationships we build here, and for the role Judaism continues to play in our lives.
As you reflect during this sacred season, I invite you to consider making a meaningful gift to the 5787 High Holy Day Appeal. Whether your contribution is large or modest, your participation matters. When every household answers the call, together we create something extraordinary.
I am deeply grateful for this community and for the many ways you continue to support and strengthen IHC through your presence, your generosity, and your commitment to one another.
Thank you for helping ensure that Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation remains a vibrant, compassionate, and inspiring Jewish home for generations to come.
PLEASE GIVE GENEROUSLY TO THE HIGH HOLY DAY APPEAL
There are three ways to contribute:
1. Fill out this form and mail or deliver it with your check (payable to IHC) to Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation:
Attn: HHD Giving 6501 N. Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46260
2. Complete the High Holy Day Appeal form on ShulCloud.
3. Complete your High Holy Days registration on ShulCloud and include your contribution there.
Yes, I/We are ready to support IHC! Enclosed please find my/our donation of:
□ $5787 (New Jewish Year) □ $3600 □ $1800 □ $360 □ $180 □ $90 □ $54 □ $36 □ $18 □ Other $
The amount you would like to include to tackle food insecurity in Indianapolis: $
Total Amount of Gift Enclosed $
For donor recognition, please list my/our name(s) as:
□ I/We would prefer to give anonymously
Name(s)
Address
City State Zip
□ Enclosed is my/our check, made payable to IHC
□ Please use my credit card □ Visa □ Mastercard
Card number:
Security Number:
Expiration Date: (month/year)
Signature:
“Lift up your voice like a shofar!
The New Year begins Friday evening, September 11, 2026. Sisterhood invites you to honor and show your appreciation for our clergy team, professional staff, and their families at Rosh Hashanah. Sisterhood will send a beautiful greeting card, including your name(s), to each of our clergy and staff.
Your contribution supports the YES Fund (Youth, Education and Special Projects) of the Women of Reform Judaism (WRJ). The YES Fund provides scholarships and educational loans for students at Hebrew Union College and supports youth activities around the world. Locally, your contribution supports Sisterhood’s funding of youth and adult programming at IHC.
“So this year, do not only listen to the sounds of a shofar, be a shofar...Our work demands we be holy voices for the better of our people and our world.” —Rabbi Daniel Allen
There are two easy ways to contribute. The deadline is Thursday, September 3, 2026.
⊲ Mail this form with your check, payable to IHC Sisterhood, to 6501 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260.
⊲ Order online at ihcindy.org/highholydaygreetings or use the QR Code

I/We would like to be included on the High Holy Day greeting card to: (Select the clergy and staff you would like to honor.)
□ Rabbi Brett Krichiver & Family
□ Cantor Aviva Marer & Family
□ Cantor Emerita Janice Roger & Family
Please list my/our names on the card as:
Name(s):
□ Rabbi Roxanne Shapiro & Family
□ Executive Director Peter Smithhisler & Family
Address: City State Zip
Email:
Please consider a minimum contribution of $18 per listing, but any contribution is appreciated. Include your name(s) on all five greeting cards for $80..
We are enclosing a total contribution amount of $


This year, our Rosh HaShanah Retreat at Goldman Union Camp will once again inspire and delight with the sights and sounds of the Holy Days. We are so thrilled to welcome hundreds of IHC’ers, friends, and family to camp to experience an immersive and creative Rosh HaShanah. As always, our activities will include a special musical and upbeat service, arts and crafts, learning sessions for all ages, and a beautiful walk down to the riverbed for tashlich in the afternoon. Make sure to register early, as our Rosh HaShanah retreat is likely to fill. Register by Sunday, August 30 to receive lunch.


Tzedkah is one of the pillars of Judaism. We are reminded of this particularly during the High Holy Days. Each year, we strive to support those in our community facing food insecurity. Last year, we received a record 108 donation bags containing over 1,300 pounds of food. Help us break this record by supporting the following:
1. Participate in our High Holy Day Food Drive.
We are partnering with Second Helpings for our High Holy Day Food Drive. Please consider donating non-perishable items in non-glass containers. They have the greatest need for the following items
• Jelly
• Peanut Butter
• Mayonnaise
• Mustard
• Pasta
• White and Brown Rice
• Cooking Oil
• Spices
You can drop off your donations at IHC during business hours or at our programs and services until Friday, October 2. Together, we will make a significant impact in our community.
2. Donate to the IHC General Hunger Fund.
Several hunger-related organizations throughout Central Indiana receive donations from the IHC General Hunger Fund. You can donate when you register online for High Holy Day services or by mailing a check made payable to Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation with the memo line “IHC Hunger Fund.”



SELICHOT WITH BETH-EL ZEDECK AT IHC
Saturday, September 5
EREV ROSH HASHANAH
Friday, September 11
ROSH HASHANAH
Saturday, September 12
ROSH HASHANAH
SECOND DAY
Sunday, September 13
KEVER AVOT
Sunday, September 13
EREV YOM KIPPUR
Sunday, September 20
YOM KIPPUR
Monday, September 21
Program | 7:00 p.m.
Services | 9 p.m.
Traditional Service | 7:30 p.m.
Rosh Hashanah Retreat | 9 a.m. at Goldman Union Camp Institute (GUCI)
Tot Service | 9 a.m.
Family Service | 9:30 a.m.
Traditional Service | 11:45 a.m.
Tashlich and Havdalah | 3 p.m. at GUCI
Shofar Blowing at IHC parking lot | 10 a.m.
Family Picnic with Shofar Blowing/Tashlich | 11 a.m.
IHC North Cemetery | 2 p.m.
IHC South Cemetery | 2 p.m.
Alternative Kol Nidre Experience | 5:30 p.m.
Traditional Kol Nidre Service | 7:30 p.m.
Nefesh-style | 9 a.m. at Goldman Union Camp Institute (GUCI)
Tot Service | 9 a.m.
Family Service | 9:30 a.m.
Traditional Service | 11:45 a.m.
Healing Service | 1:30 p.m.
Learning Session | 2:45 p.m.
Yizkor Service | 4 p.m.
N’ilah/Havdalah | 5 p.m.