Simchat Torah (The Rejoicing of the Torah), otherwise known as Shmini Atzeret (The Eighth-Day Assembly), is celebrated on the 8th day after Sukkot begins. It is an especially joyful festival which today centers around celebrating the Torah itself, the word of God. This tradition stems from the yearly cycle of Torah portions, which concludes and begins afresh on the week of Simchat Torah. Jewish communities around the world will celebrate by reading the last Torah portion, or parashah, directly followed by the first. Many communities also dance through their synagogue holding the Torah scrolls.

Please continue to pray for peace over worshippers during this festival. Please pray for a return of unity amongst God’s people. Lastly, please pray for closeness between God and His people this holiday.