Rabbi Larry Sernovitz’s Rosh Hashanah Message for 2025

The Talmud, in Menachot 43b, teaches, “A person is obligated to recite one hundred blessings every day…” This is what G-d requires of us. This would be a blessing every ten minutes. Since October 7, the world has been heavy as we pray for the return of the hostages, peace for the families of those who were killed, and an end to the war. As the High Holy Days begin, the heaviness remains. But, as tradition also teaches, we shouldn’t mourn when we are required to celebrate. In fact, Shiva is cut short if a holiday comes before the seven days have concluded.

Tradition recognizes that we are then required to hold two conflicting emotions at once: heaviness and mourning, along with celebration and joy. How can we celebrate a new Jewish year when there is such conflict?

As Deuteronomy 30:19 teaches, “I have set before your life and death, blessing and curse. Choose life so that you and your offspring will live.” Let us choose life in this New Year. Life that brings life and renewal to our community, to our loved ones, to our brothers and sisters in Israel, and to all who struggle with the heaviness of the world. Let us always remember that we, too, have the power to change the world with each life we impact, one by one, step by step. I see this on our college campuses, where our students are building bridges and celebrating Jewish joy. The future is bright for them, and for us. Let us follow their lead.

Shana tova um’tukah, a good and sweet New Year to you and your loved ones.

Rabbi Sernovitz is the CEO of Hillels of Georgia, creating vibrant Jewish life on campuses across Georgia.