On Simhat Torah, coinciding with the second day of Sh’mini Atzeret and a separate festival following Sukkot, the Torah cycle of the year is complete and recommenced. The last and first sections are traditionally regarded as portions of honor. Historically it was the practice to assign these portions to individuals, who because of their scholarship, piety, or service to the Jewish community, merited public tribute.

The custom of honoring a Hatan or Kallat Maftir (Bridegroom or Bride of the Prophetic Message) also was established to honor an outstanding individual for conspicuous services rendered to the Jewish community or the Synagogue.  Traditionally, the honoree chanted the Haftorah.

This year our honorees are Elisheva Hadar,  Neal Menkes, and Kristin Gorin.  Read about them here.