October 2 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
A celebration of the biblical Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot).
What to Expect
On Friday, October 2 at 7 p.m., we will gather at the sukkah, a temporary booth built for the festival, on the third-floor deck of Chosen People Ministries’ headquarters, weather permitting. There we will worship the God of Israel in song, enter the sukkah, and, following the tradition described in the Torah (Leviticus 23:40), shake the lulav (bound palm branches) and lift the etrog (a citron fruit). Afterward, we will go downstairs for a short message on the biblical significance of Sukkot, followed by food and fellowship in the joyful spirit of the season.
Who This Is for
We welcome Jewish believers, Christians interested in the Jewish roots of their faith, and anyone curious about this festival. No prior knowledge of Hebrew or of Sukkot is needed. Scripture describes this celebration continuing among all nations during the messianic kingdom (Zechariah 14:16), so the hope behind Sukkot extends well beyond this one gathering. If you are wondering whether there is hope for the future, this festival points to it: God’s promise that He will dwell with His people forever (Revelation 21:3–4).
Who You Will Meet
Rich Flashman, a Jewish believer in Yeshua (Jesus), professor of theology, and Chosen People Ministries’ Manhattan branch leader, will serve as our speaker and host. Raphael Giglio, a Jewish believer in Yeshua, pastor, and songwriter, will co-host and lead worship alongside his wife, Ally.
Why It Matters
The God of Israel laid out a plan for humanity through the biblical festivals appointed in the Torah, the first five books of the Bible. Sukkot points to the fulfillment of that plan. We celebrate it as an act of worship for His provision and protection, and as an act of faith anticipating the future reality of dwelling with Him forever in His presence. This festival connects us to history, acknowledges our present blessings, and offers a hope for the future that nothing in this world can take away. The Feast of Tabernacles is a chance to celebrate our eternal fellowship with the God of Israel, the one who created us, sustains us, redeems us, loves us, and dwells with us forever.
We are gathering to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles on Hoshana Rabbah, the seventh day of the festival. Its Hebrew name means “the great hoshana,” “hoshana” being a plea for God’s salvation. Participants will take part in ancient Sukkot traditions; worship the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob with music in thanks for His faithfulness; learn the biblical message of Sukkot; and rejoice together with food and fellowship in His provision and protection.
FAQ
Who can attend, and do I need to know Hebrew or the holiday of Sukkot beforehand?
This event is for everyone, Jewish people and Gentiles alike, who want to grow in relationship with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God and Father of Yeshua the Messiah. No prior knowledge of Hebrew or of Sukkot is necessary.
How do I get there?
Chosen People Ministries’ headquarters is at 241 E. 51st Street, New York, NY. You can get here via subway by taking the 6 train to Lexington Ave./51st St, or by taking the E or F train to Lexington Ave./53rd St. Bus stops and paid parking garages are also nearby.
Is the building accessible?
The venue does not have an elevator. Getting to our sukkah on the third floor deck requires walking up two flights of stairs.
What happens if it rains?
In case of rain, all activities will move inside.