Chabad of Greater Hartford, based in West Hartford, will hold no-cost High Holidays services, geared for Jews of all backgrounds, at the Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington.

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This year Chabad will be hosting an additional High Holiday experience at the beautiful Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington, known for its Colonial Revival architecture. The services are open to the entire community, so people can enjoy an atmosphere that is as physically charming as it will be spiritually warm and inviting. There is no cost to participate, however registration is required.

The services are designed to make everyone feel welcome and at home. The prayers, conducted with Hebrew/English prayer books, are lively, engaging and inclusive – spiced with inspiring tunes and insightful explanations throughout – allowing all to absorb the experience at their own level, regardless of background and level of observance, in a non-judgmental atmosphere. They will be hosted by Rabbi Shaya and Shayna Gopin of Chabad.

There will also be children’s program including Little Gan Rosh Hashana Circle, Children’s Prayer, Crafts, and Socceropolis, as well as a CTeen High Holiday Discussion for teens.

“According to Jewish tradition, the gates of Heaven are open on the New Year, and G-d accepts prayers from everyone,” said Rabbi Shaya Gopin of Chabad. “That serves as our inspiration to keep our doors open as well to the entire community.

“The Rebbe — Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory — insisted that Judaism be made accessible to all Jews,” Gopin continued. “During the High Holidays, accessibility can translate into different factors for different people, such as a nonjudgmental atmosphere, affordability of the services or the ability for a beginner to follow along. Bringing the High Holidays to the Hill-Stead creates an inviting and comfortable environment, making it even more accessible to all. Our goal is to lower the barriers of entry and encourage each and every Jew to actively participate in these most holy and introspective days.”

There are no membership fees or tickets needed for the High Holiday services, donations are much appreciated and help cover the High Holiday expenses.

Rosh Hashanah services at the Hill-Stead Museum, 35 Mountain Rd. in Farmington, will be held Monday, Sept. 26 and Tuesday, Sept. 27, beginning at 10 a.m. with Shofar blowing at approximately 11:30 a.m. Yom Kippur services will be held on Tuesday evening, Oct. 4 at 6:15 p.m. and Wednesday, Oct. 5 beginning at 10 a.m .with an evening Neilah-closing service at 5:15 p.m. service, followed by a Break the fast.

There will also be a “Shofar @ the River,” at 5 p.m. on Monday Sept. 26, with Tashlich Waterside Service & Shofar, at the Farmington River (Across Route 10 from Modern Tire).

Chabad is known for its open doors and welcoming atmosphere, which allows anyone in the community to enjoy any program that interests them, regardless of affiliation or background. Chabad believes Judaism should be fun, joyous and easily accessible.

This is in addition to services being held at the Chabad House, 2352 Albany Ave., in West Hartford.

People who attend Chabad’s High Holiday services hail from all different backgrounds and levels of observance. Chabad offers programs and guidance to allow you to nurture your Judaism at your own pace in a non-judgmental atmosphere.

To register or for more information go to www.HighHolidaysHillstead.com, call 860-232-8556, or email [email protected] with any questions or concerns.

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