Avinu Malkeinu

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Avinu Malkeinu is considered by many to be the pinnacle of the Yom Kippur service. It’s definitely one of my favorite moments of the day. The ark is still open and will soon close. As the service is reaching its end, one begins to feel the gates of heaven closing. The emotions that have been built up throughout the day are expressed and culminated by the entire congregation singing a traditional tune together. It is in that very moment that we also want to give expression to a new setting of an ancient prayer, which introduces a fresh perspective on looking at the day. This new composition is by one of my dearest mentors, Cantor Meir Finkelstein.

It is an important reminder of how we cherish the past, and allow it to help shape our focus for the days ahead. The old and the new, side by side, representing our ever evolving tradition, and perhaps ourselves, blessed by renewed energy year after year.

May your prayers be answered and may you have a good, sweet and healthy year.

Colin Fowler, Music Director
Doug Yoel, A/V
Park Avenue Synagogue