Yom Kippur Begins at Sundown

In the Jewish custom, Yom Kippur, which begins at sundown on Friday, is considered one of the holiest days of the Jewish year.

The holiday finds its roots in the Biblical book of Leviticus, which calls for setting aside a day every year dedicated to atonement and abstinence. The Jewish people use the day to fast, pray and become introspective about their lives, while wearing white to signify personal purity.

Although there are no synagogues or Jewish centers in the Sewickley area, worshippers may easily find services nearby throughout the Greater Pittsburgh area.

The Kol Nidre service at Beth Samuel Jewish Center in Ambridge took place Friday night. A list of Yom Kippur services are planned for Saturday. Yom Kippur morning services begin at 9:30 a.m.; children's services are at 10:30 a.m.; afternoon and Ne'ilah services are at 5:15 p.m.; and Break the Fast at 7:30 p.m.

The synagogue is located at 810 Kennedy Drive.

At Temple Ohav Shalom in nearby Allison Park, a Yom Kippur for Tots service is scheduled for 9:15 a.m. on Saturday, with Yom Kippur services at 10 a.m. A family service is set for 2 p.m. A healing service is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. and there's another afternoon service at 5 p.m.

The synagogue is located at 8409 Thompson Run Road.