Chabad Lubavitch of Fountain Hills has plans to serve the local Jewish population for Rosh Hashanah and the High Holidays.

Chabad of Fountain Hills, the local branch of the largest Jewish outreach organization in the world, is presenting its own High Holiday services option, providing free Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services in a warm and inclusive setting.

Chabad’s services are “user-friendly,” making it enjoyable and meaningful for both the beginner and the advanced.

Song, commentary and the use of English-Hebrew prayer books enable those of all levels to become active participants in the services.

“According to Jewish tradition, on the Jewish New Year, the doors of Heaven are open. G-d accepts prayers from everyone,” said Chabad Lubavitch Rabbi Mendy Lipskier, who is hosting free services in Fountain Hills.

“The least we can do is open our doors as well, to the entire community.”

Rabbi Mendy continued, "The Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory, insisted that Judaism is accessible to all Jews. During the Jewish High Holidays, accessibility can translate into different factors for different people, such as a non-judgmental atmosphere, affordability of the services, or the ability for a beginner to follow along.

“Our goal is to lower the barriers of entry, and encourage each and every Jew to actively participate in these most holy and introspective days.”

Rosh Hashanah begins this year after sundown today, Sept. 24, and extends until nightfall on Sept. 26. Yom Kippur begins this year after sundown on the eve of Oct. 3 and extends until nightfall on Oct. 4.

Chabad Lubavitch of Fountain Hills will be holding Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services this year.

Services are 6:15 p.m. on Sept. 24; 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 25; 9:30 a.m. Oct. 3, 6 p.m.; Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m., Yizkor Memorial service 12 p.m., Mincha and Neilah services, 4:15 p.m.

Chabad is located at 11010 N. Saguaro Blvd. in Fountain Hills. Register online at www.jewishfountainhills.com or call the office at (480) 776-4763.