Hatanu Lefanekha – The Sephardic Spirit of Renewal

“Hatanu lefanekha rakhem ‘allenu – We have sinned before You, have mercy on us.”This refrain, familiar to anyone who has recited the Selihot prayers, echoes throughout Sephardic synagogues during the month of Elul as we prepare for Rosh Ashana and Yom Kippur.

At first glance, it might seem unusual how Sephardic communities approach these penitential prayers. Rather than being chanted in hushed tones of fear or sadness, Selihot are sung with melodies that are joyous, powerful, and uplifting—sometimes almost celebratory. The atmosphere often feels less like a somber plea and more like a party.

And yet, this joyful tone captures the essence of Sephardic Judaism. It reflects a worldview rooted in optimism, hope, and the belief that even when we stumble, we are never beyond repair. For Sepharadim, prayer is not about self-condemnation but about reconnecting—with God, with our community, and with our better selves. The spirited tunes are reminders that although we may have faltered, we are blessed with the opportunity to rise again, to ask forgiveness, and to embrace a new beginning. We approach God as children turning to a loving parent: “We made mistakes, but we’re grateful for the chance to try again.”

Just as these High Holy Days call us to renewal, the Sephardic Brotherhood also looks forward with fresh energy and new purpose. This year, we are launching a number of exciting initiatives designed to strengthen and expand Sephardic life in America. Among them are the new digital magazine portal, our Tour of Jewish Greece & the Balkans, and expansion of our new Sephardic Youth Movement - Bivas: The Ladino High School Club of America along with other innovative programming. We launched a new Washington DC Chapter of the Brotherhood, helped provide financial assistance to needy campers at Sephardic Adventure Camp, and gave out more than $55,000 in University scholarships to members of our community. Each of these projects reflects our mission to preserve traditions while building opportunities for future generations.

Of course, none of this can happen without the commitment and creativity of our members. We invite you to get involved—whether by donating, volunteering, sharing your ideas, or helping us shape programs that will benefit our entire community. Together, we can ensure that the coming year is not just good, but truly sweet—an Anyada Buena i Dulsefor all.

On behalf of our national leadership, I extend to you, your families, and the entire Jewish people heartfelt wishes for a year of health, happiness, and peace.

Tizku LeShanim Rabot,

Sedat Behar

President