EATING: In the eve of Yom Kippur, we should eat and drink more than usual,in preparation for the fast. Eating more than usual will give us strength to endure the fast and according to some Rabbis, it makes-up for the Yom Tob's (or this year: Shabbat's) meals, which cannot be eaten on Yom Kippur because of the fast. Before the fast begins, we have the se'udat hamafseqet: the last meal before the fast. We should finish eating before 6:10 NYT.
ASKING FORGIVENESS: Sins committed against another person cannot be atoned for on Yom Kippur, until one seeks first, forgiveness from the person he/she has hurt. Thus, it is necessary to visit (or at least call) friends, family, and any person whom one may have aggravated, offended or spoken ill of in the past year and ask forgiveness. That includes friends, colleagues, spouse and other. family members. Special attention should be given in asking forgivenessfrom our parents.
FORGIVING: Many people practice the beautiful custom of 'forgiving' everyone that has offended them, removing all bad feeling that might be stored in one's heart. Parents should also forgive their children in their hearts, thus saving them from the serious transgression of Kibud Ab vaEm.
MIKVEH: It is customary for men to immerse in a Mikveh (ritual bath) on the eve of Yom Kippur. This reminds us of the kohen gadol who would purify himself in the Mikveh before performing his Holy service ('abodat Yom haKippurim).
Candle lighting for Shabbat and Yom Kippur in NYC: 6:10 PM
This year, because of Shabbat, when lighting the candles women should say:
... lehadlik ner shel Shabbat veYom haKippurim. (The Mashadi custom is to recite also Shehecheyanu).
Yom Kippur ends in NYC at: 7:16 PM
Who is exempted from fasting on Yom Kippur and how to eat when you cannot fast?
An English version of the Viduy
Wearing non-leather shoes on Yom Kippur.
What is the best way of doing Kapparot?
'Steve Jobs and Yom Kippur'
