High Holy Days Survival Kit: Field Guide for Leading Conservative Services

A practical field guide for leading Conservative High Holy Day services with confidence.

Whether you're leading for the first time or the fiftieth, the High Holy Days bring unique challenges. Page turns, ark openings, timing, shofar cues, Torah service logistics, accessibility, last-minute surprises, and the countless small decisions that no one seems to teach.

The High Holy Days Survival Kit is the guide many rabbis, cantors, and lay leaders wish they had when they first stepped onto the bimah.

The complete edition includes guidance for:

• Rosh Hashanah Evening
• Rosh Hashanah Shacharit
• Torah Service & Shofar
• Musaf
• Kol Nidrei
• Yom Kippur Morning
• Yizkor
• Mincha
• Ne'ilah
• Yom Kippur Finale

Along the way you'll find:

• Practical notes and page references
• Common pitfalls to avoid
• "Nobody Tells You This" insights
• Accessibility reminders
• Pre-service checklists
• Suggestions drawn from years of leading and supporting High Holy Day services

This guide assumes the liturgy is already in your hands. Its purpose is to help you lead it with confidence, calm, and a constant focus on the congregation's experience.

Not sure if it's right for you? Download the free Musaf Sample Edition to explore the format and style before purchasing.