Scotch Plains: Temple Sholom Yom Kippur and Late-Summer Events

Temple Sholom in Scotch Plains opens the High Holy Days with Kol Nidre services on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. The evening marks the start of Yom Kippur with the traditional prayer of atonement, and the service features a choir and guest musicians.

Yom Kippur continues Monday, September 21, with Morning Services at 10:30 a.m., followed by Mincha (afternoon services) at 3:30 p.m. Yizkor, the memorial service honoring loved ones who have passed, begins at 5:15 p.m. N'ilah, the concluding service of Yom Kippur, starts at 5:45 p.m. and is followed by a community Break the Fast.

All Yom Kippur services at Temple Sholom are open to all, but registration is required. To register or for more information, contact Temple Sholom at (908) 889-4900 or office@sholomnj.org. The synagogue is located at 1925 Lake Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076.

Before the High Holy Days arrive, Temple Sholom hosted two late-summer gatherings. Shabbat Around the Campfire took place Friday, August 28, with a light nosh at 5:30 p.m., Shabbat services at 6 p.m., and s'mores by the fire. The Temple Sholom Foam Party followed on Monday, August 31, from 3 to 4 p.m., featuring bubbles, freeze dancing, and a foam scavenger hunt open to all ages.

Also this week, First Congregational Church of Westfield hosted Vacation Bible Camp through Friday, August 28, at 125 Elmer Street in Westfield. The camp ran 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily and was open to campers ages 3 through 5th grade. Rotations included drama, science, music, and cooking.

Union County Life covers Scotch Plains religious communities and spiritual events. Find more Scotch Plains events, businesses, and local news on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: When does Temple Sholom's Yom Kippur begin?
A: Kol Nidre services begin on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., marking the start of Yom Kippur.

Q: What services are held on Yom Kippur?
A: Morning Services at 10:30 a.m., Mincha (afternoon services) at 3:30 p.m., Yizkor (memorial service) at 5:15 p.m., and N'ilah (concluding service) at 5:45 p.m., all on Monday, September 21.

Q: What is Kol Nidre?
A: Kol Nidre is the traditional prayer of atonement that opens Yom Kippur observance.

Q: What is Yizkor?
A: Yizkor is the memorial service honoring loved ones who have passed.

Q: What happens after N'ilah?
A: A community Break the Fast follows the N'ilah service, marking the end of the Yom Kippur fast.

Q: Are the services open to the community?
A: Yes. All Yom Kippur services at Temple Sholom are open to all, though registration is required.

Q: How do I register for services?
A: Contact Temple Sholom at (908) 889-4900 or office@sholomnj.org to register.

Q: Where is Temple Sholom located?
A: Temple Sholom is located at 1925 Lake Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076.

Q: Will there be special music at the services?
A: Yes. Kol Nidre services feature a choir and guest musicians.

Q: When should I arrive for services?
A: Arrive before the scheduled service time. Contact the temple for seating and timing details.