Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New year is the anniversary of the creation of the world. In 2010 it’s the year 5771. The festival will last two nights, preparing the way for Yom Kippur, the Feast of Atonement which begins 10 days after Rosh Hashanah. Taken together this season is called “Ten Days of Awe.” September, called Tishri ends with the Feast of Kabbalah, the Sukkot.

Tonight, the Jewish community around the world will gather for family meals and prayers. Some synagogues will organize large celebrations.

With the New Year Jews remember Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning God created…” God alone is the source of all things. God exists apart and beyond all things. He alone IS, and IS self-sufficient and self-existent.

Christians too worship the God of all who is the source of all things. We too remember that he created and now sustains all things. The world had a beginning, in him.  And also the world will have an end, again in him.

“Lord God, we bless you and praise you. You are the God and Lord, source and power of all power. You alone are creator. Out of love you have given life and existence beyond yourself. Thank you. Today, at Rosh Hashanah we remember you as the source of all things. All that is, is through you. We acknowledge our debt to you. Without you we would be nothing. Thank you too for the revelation of truth you have entrusted to your people, the Jews. Bless the Jewish community around the world today. Protect and provide for them. Lead them to know you in deeper ways. Show them their Messiah, deliverer and healer. Be forever praised!”