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Marking the end of the ten days of repentance, Yom Kippur is the Day of Atonement, observed by 25 hours of fasting and prayer to be cleansed of sin. Yom Kippur begins at sundown with an evening service called Kol Nidre, ‘All Vows,’ which is commonly preceded by a large meal, the last before the start of the fast. Yom Kippur is observed on the tenth of the month of Tishrei on the Hebrew calendar.
This year Yom Kippur begins begins sunset of Friday, October 11, 2024
ends nightfall of Saturday, October 12, 2024
Yom Kippur Messaging
Yom Kippur is widely observed, including the practice of fasting, by Jews around the world, regardless of religiosity. Recognition by your institution of the importance of Yom Kippur will communicate appreciation of your Jewish students, faculty, and staff. Any and all public greetings are encouraged – in video or graphical format; on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter / X; and as stories and feed posts.
Greetings are most appreciated in the 24 hours leading up to the start of the holiday. Because of celebrations and observances that prohibit the use of electronics, many celebrating Yom Kippur will not see any late messages until the holiday is over. As Yom Kippur begins in the evening, sharing greetings early that day is ideal.
Appropriate language and imagery for Yom Kippur greetings and messaging include:
- Repentance / atonement
- Forgiveness
- Shofar
- Prayer
Avoid using any Jewish-related imagery that is not associated with Rosh Hashanah. For example, a common mistake is to include imagery of Chanukah menorahs or matzah ball soup.
Although it conveys much-appreciated cultural recognition, we recommend avoiding using Hebrew lettering in your holiday greetings and focusing more on the core message you wish to relay.
Sample greetings
Wishing our students, faculty, and staff a meaningful Yom Kippur
May our campus Jewish community have an easy fast this Yom Kippur holiday.
Suggested social media captions:
- Gmar Chatimah Tova
- Wishing the Jewish community here at [name of your campus here] a meaningful Yom Kippur.
Tip for Presidents and Individuals: It is nice to include an anecdote about an experience or favourite aspect of the holiday in your personal greeting.