The observance of Rosh Hashana, or Jewish New Year 5695, began at sundown last evening and will continue through the customary period, the observance embracing a chapter of sacred events, to finally culminate in the grand Purim festival, that has become a part of the social customs of all civilized lands.
The observance is participated in by the orthodox and reformed Hebrews, whose rituals are identical save in that which fixed the actual date of the new year upon the Jewish calendar, and to cover this doubt the orthodox branch continues the ceremonies over two days.
The reformed branch began its ceremonies at the Synagogue last evening at 8 o'clock, at which hour the temple was filled with a large congregation, who listened to the exhortations by Mr. A Stiefel and Mr. Sig Simon, while the choir under the direction of Professor Krouse and composed of Mrs. Dr. Plummer, soprano, Miss Lucas, contralto, Mr. Jos Obendorfer, baritone, and Mr. Carlisle, tenor, rendered most impressive music.
The fast had then begun and will continue until the blowing of the shofar, or ram's horn, at 11 o'clock this morning by Mr. Stiefel, who has for years administered that portion of the Jewish ceremony.
The service by the orthodox branch took place at Odd Fellows' Hall during the evening, and was conducted by Messrs. M. C. Phillips and Carl Young. The service consisted of reading from Sephor Thora, or the scroll containing the five books of Moses, of prayers and other solemnities in which a large number took part.
On Wednesday comes the Day of Atonement, which will also be observed by both branches with impressive ceremony, and so on through the period of observance.
