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Congregation Tifereth Israel of Jackson Heights

High Holidays at Congregation Tifereth Israel

The High Holidays—Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur—are the most sacred days of the Jewish year, and at Congregation Tifereth Israel in Jackson Heights, we celebrate them with meaningful services that balance tradition with warmth and accessibility. Whether you attend synagogue regularly or only during the High Holidays, you'll find a welcoming community ready to help you experience these Days of Awe.

Our High Holiday services in Queens combine traditional Orthodox liturgy with beautiful melodies, inspiring sermons, and a congregation that truly feels like family. From the stirring sounds of the shofar on Rosh Hashanah to the moving Kol Nidre and Neilah services on Yom Kippur, we create an atmosphere where spiritual reflection meets community connection.

What to Expect During High Holidays

Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year)

Two days of services featuring the shofar (ram's horn), beautiful prayers welcoming the new year, and festive meals. Services include evening and morning sessions with the traditional sounding of the shofar.

Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)

The holiest day of the Jewish year, observed with fasting and prayer. Services include the haunting Kol Nidre evening service, daytime prayers, afternoon Yizkor memorial service, and the concluding Neilah service followed by the final shofar blast.

High Holiday Questions

Do I need tickets or reservations?

We ask that you RSVP so we can plan seating and materials accordingly. Contact us to reserve your seats for your family. There is no charge for High Holiday services, though donations are appreciated to support our congregation.

What should I bring?

We provide all prayer books (machzorim). Just bring yourself and your family. Consider bringing a tallit (prayer shawl) if you have one. On Yom Kippur, many wear white and non-leather shoes as traditional customs.

Can I bring children?

Absolutely. Children are an important part of our High Holiday community. We understand that young children may need to step out during services, and we have space available for families.

I haven't been to synagogue in years. Will I be lost?

Not at all. Many people who join us for High Holidays don't attend regularly throughout the year. Our machzorim have English translations, and community members are happy to help you find your place. The High Holidays are a time for return and renewal—there's no judgment, only welcome.

How long are the services?

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur morning services typically run from 9:30 AM until early afternoon. Evening services are shorter, usually 1-2 hours. You're welcome to arrive late or leave early if needed—we understand everyone has different stamina levels.

Where is the synagogue located?

We're located at 31-36 88th Street in East Elmhurst, NY (near Jackson Heights). Convenient to LaGuardia Airport and easily accessible from Jackson Heights, Corona, Elmhurst, and Woodside neighborhoods in Queens.

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Weekly Connection

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Since 1927

A legacy of community

Congregation Tifereth Israel has been a spiritual anchor in Jackson Heights, Queens for nearly a century. We aren't just a synagogue; we are a family.

Whether you are seeking to reconnect with your roots or looking for a welcoming Orthodox Jewish community for your family in Queens, our doors—and our hearts—are open.

Historic Jackson Heights synagogue Congregation Tifereth Israel in the 1940s

The Foundation, 1940s

Orthodox synagogue community in Jackson Heights Queens today

The Community, Today

What We Offer

Your Jewish Home in Jackson Heights

Located in the heart of Jackson Heights, Queens, Congregation Tifereth Israel serves as a vibrant center for Jewish life in our community. Whether you're looking for weekly Shabbat services, High Holiday celebrations, or a place to raise your children with Jewish values, our synagogue offers a warm and welcoming environment for individuals and families at every stage of their Jewish journey.

Our congregation provides traditional Orthodox services while maintaining an inclusive atmosphere that welcomes Jews of all backgrounds, interfaith families, and those new to Jewish practice. From our Hebrew School program for children to adult Torah study classes, we offer educational opportunities for all ages. We celebrate lifecycle events including baby namings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, and provide support during times of mourning with Yizkor memorial services and end-of-life guidance.

Conveniently located in Jackson Heights with easy access from surrounding Queens neighborhoods including Elmhurst, Woodside, and Corona, our synagogue has been a cornerstone of Jewish community life in Northwest Queens since 1927. Join us for Shabbat morning services every Saturday at 9:30 AM, followed by our weekly Kiddush lunch where community members gather to share a meal and connect.

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Shabbat Services

Saturdays 9:30 AM

Traditional services followed by Kiddush lunch

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Hebrew School

Jewish education for children

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Torah Classes

Study groups for all levels

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📖 Prayer Book Companion

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What We Offer

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Rabbi Meir Pape

Rabbi Meir Pape

"Whether you have questions, need guidance, or just want to introduce yourself — I'd love to hear from you."

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Congregation Tifereth Israel
31-36 88th Street
East Elmhurst, NY 11369

Phone: (347) 450-6005
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