New Jersey's Jewish residents pray and reflect during Yom Kippur

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Yom Kippur, the holiest day for Jewish people, begins at sundown. It is known as the Day of Atonement, and is a time to repent. Rabbi Eitan Webb, who operates the Chabad House at Princeton University, says there is forgiveness to be found by the faithful. “We can give each other that gift of forgiveness and in the process gain the same from God," he says. The rabbi says Yom Kippur is not solely a day for prayer. He says the Torah teaches that personal reflection and connection are at this high holiday's core. He also points out that the Torah doesn’t mention the day must be spent in synagogue. “Take the day and not eat, read a book meditate, do a puzzle, reflect you are actually fulfilling the biblical Yom Kippur," he says. Those observing Yom Kippur fast for 24 hours. The rabbi and his family will be eating “kreplach," a type of dumpling as part of a traditional meal before sundown. It's a food that carries its own meaning says Rabbi Webb. “To remind ourselves that sometimes the good things in life are hidden," he says. He says it has been a difficult year for the students he serves, some of whom have been targets of antisemitism as it relates to the war overseas. Webb says he is grateful for the security provided by police and the nation, which allows him to mark the holy holiday. The rabbi channels self-awareness and pride to those students he speaks with. “I try to encourage them as quickly as possible to pivot away from the pain and the hurt," he says. "