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Yom Kippur Celebration | Day of Atonement 2023
September 24, 2023 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Messianic Yom Kippur Service
Join us Sunday, September 24th at 7:00 PM for our annual Yom Kippur worship service. This will be a more minimal service to honor the day.
Yom Kippur, known as the Day of Atonement, stands as the holiest day in the Hebrew calendar. While primarily observed by Jews, many Messianic Christians also recognize its profound significance, particularly in relation to Yeshua (Jesus). This article explores the essence of Yom Kippur and its deep ties to the Messiah.
What is Yom Kippur?
Yom Kippur is observed on the 10th day of the Hebrew month of Tishrei. It is a day of fasting, prayer, and repentance, culminating the Ten Days of Repentance that begin with Yom Teruah. The Torah mandates this day as a solemn sabbath, a time to “afflict your souls” and offer sacrifices to atone for the sins of the nation (Leviticus 16:29-30). The High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies in the Temple, the only time in the year he was permitted to do so, to make atonement for himself, the priesthood, and all of Israel.
Yom Kippur and Yeshua (Jesus)
For Messianic Christians, the biblical feasts serve as both commemorative and prophetic markers, pointing to the life and mission of Yeshua. Here’s how Yom Kippur is intricately linked with Him:
The Ultimate Atonement:
The sacrifices on Yom Kippur were annual and repetitive, indicating their temporary nature. Yeshua, however, offered Himself as the perfect and final sacrifice for sins. Hebrews 9:12 says, “He entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption.”
Reconciliation with God:
Yom Kippur emphasizes reconciliation between God and His people. Yeshua’s sacrifice facilitates this reconciliation on a profound level. 2 Corinthians 5:19 states, “God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them.”
High Priest in the Order of Melchizedek:
Yeshua is described as our High Priest, but not in the lineage of Aaron. Instead, He is of the order of Melchizedek, a priesthood that supersedes the Aaronic one. As our High Priest, Yeshua entered the heavenly Holy of Holies, presenting His own blood as atonement for humanity’s sins (Hebrews 6:20).
The Promise of Redemption:
The conclusion of Yom Kippur brings a sense of renewal and hope. This aligns with the promise of Yeshua’s return and the ultimate redemption of those who trust in Him.
Join us for a Messianic Yom Kippur Service
For Messianic Christians, Yom Kippur is a poignant reminder of Yeshua’s sacrificial love and the eternal atonement He provides. Observing this day allows believers to reflect on the gravity of sin, the immense cost of redemption, and the boundless grace offered through Yeshua. It serves as a bridge between the ancient rituals of the Old Covenant and the fulfilled promises of the New, all converging in the person and work of the Messiah.