CHICAGO – The sun has set in Chicagoland, marking the start of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year.
But as Jewish people around the world celebrate and pray for a happy new year, local synagogues and community centers are beefing up their security to protect against any potential threats amid the growing conflict in the Middle East.
At the beginning of the Jewish New Year, the brothers apply to Synagogue Free in West Rogers Park to celebrate the holiday with prayer and rituals, such as eating apples and honey.
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“It’s about fun, you want a happy new year and we’re just starting with great hope and great hope, we’re looking forward to a bright and happy year ahead, a time of joy,” said Rabbi Levi Notik.
At a time of heightened conflict in Israel, this is the first Jewish High Holiday since the October 7 attack by Hamas.
The Consul General of Israel notes that the past year has been full of growing tensions at home.
“We’ve seen a huge increase in antisemitism across the country and unfortunately here in the City of Chicago and Chicagoland,” said Yinam Cohen, Consul General of Israel in the Midwest. “I hope this Rosh Hashanah will be an opportunity to celebrate with family and friends and not, you know, fear the threats that are at hand.”
Chicago police say they pay special attention to places of worship.
“The Chicago Police Department will be looking closely at places of worship. As always, we are monitoring all activities and although there is no active intelligence at this time, we will have additional officers to ensure that the city’s religious communities are not only safe, but feel safe,” said a spokesperson for the Chicago Police Department. .
“So we are careful. Safety is a priority. “But when people come to pray, they will feel they have the opportunity to communicate and really think about the coming new year and we don’t have to worry or fear in any way for our safety,” said Notik.
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Chicago’s Jewish Community Centers have also beefed up their security over the past year, even receiving Homeland Security grants to strengthen their buildings. They said that these measures are not fueled by fear but by determination.
“We’re really trying to look for hope and optimism in our Jewish community and Jewish life and be a place where people can still find that joy,” said JCC Chicago President and CEO Addie Goodman.
That joy is a central part of Rosh Hashanah.
“Give someone a meal, say a prayer, think of someone in need and bring in the new year with beauty, kindness, love, confidence, it really makes a difference. We need that in the world today.
Rosh Hashanah begins at sunset on Wednesday night and ends at sunset on Friday night.
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