The Jewish community gathers in Baltimore County to celebrate Rosh Hashanah

BALTIMORE – The Baltimore Hebrew Congregation held its annual “Rosh Hashanah Under the Stars” at Oregon Ridge Park on Wednesday to celebrate the Jewish New Year, despite the troubling war in the Middle East involving Israel.

“This is more of a reason to come together and do this and not allow this to overshadow our religion and what is in our hearts,” said Geoffrey Abraskin, chairman of Rosh Hashanah Under the Stars.

Rabbi Andrew Busch said the event, now in its 18th year, was a staple of the community.

“This is truly a unique event in our country,” said Busch. “’Rosh Hashanah Under the Stars’ only takes place in Baltimore.”

The time for celebration and reflection comes as the conflict in the Middle East continues to intensify. Last year’s Rosh Hashanah came days before Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, which killed more than 1,200 people.

As the Jewish people look ahead to the new year, Rabbi Busch left those who filled the grassy field with words of hope for the road ahead.

“We wish that the coming year will be a sweet year of blessing and health for us, for the people of Israel and its neighbors, for all people,” said Busch.