SOJC Welcomes You to High Holiday Family Services

This high holiday season, Southwest Orlando Jewish Congregation will open its doors to the public for two family-focused services — one on Rosh Hashanah, and the other on Yom Kippur. Rabbi Shai Specht-Sandler and Cantorial Soloist Ginny Kolin are preparing a magical, musical experience for all who attend.

“We’re not just going to sit quietly and read,” said Rabbi Shai. “There will be music on the keyboard, songs everyone can sing, and a spirit that invites kids and adults alike to take part. It’s about joy, depth, and connection, not just formality.”

In his first few months as SOJC’s full-time rabbi, Rabbi Shai has infused the community’s weekly services with joyous musicality.

“I love blending music, prayer, and storytelling so the service isn’t just going through the motions,” he said. “People actually feel the awe and possibility of a new year.”

That feeling, Kolin explained, is what will make these family services “magical.”

“High holiday magic happens when we all come together in spirit, with joy and awe!” she said.

SOJC members know Kolin both as a Religious School teacher and a long-time leader of Saturday morning Torah services. She is thrilled to continue to serve her community during the high holidays in her new role.

“I am very excited about my role as cantorial soloist because it is an extra-special opportunity to do exactly what motivates me every day — elevating the Jewish experience of others in any way I can!” she said. “I hope that people will feel connected to the community and feel the awe of this season as a result of these services.”

Rabbi Shai agreed. “My hope is that people leave not just inspired, but renewed,” he said. “Ready to forgive, to hope, and to bring more joy into the year ahead … If the kids leave saying, ‘That was fun and meaningful,’ and the parents leave saying, ‘I really needed that,’ then I’ll know we’ve done what we set out to do.”

Family services will take place at SOJC for Rosh Hashanah on Sept. 23 at 1p.m., and for Yom Kippur on Oct. 2 at 4 p.m. Attendance is free; registration is required for security no later than Sept. 21. Visit www.sojc.org for more details.