Chabad of Israel will operate nearly 500 open synagogues intended for the general public in large, air-conditioned tents, public halls, sports halls, public spaces, synagogues and Chabad houses during Yom Kippur, as it did for Rosh Hashana.
The special initiative, initiated by the Chabad Youth Association, gives "synagogueless people", and basically every Jew, an opportunity to join the people of Israel in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It is estimated that many Jews of all shades of rainbow will take their places in open synagogues, many of them uncomfortable joining an institution synagogue - which often involves paying dues or paying for the place. In the open Chabad synagogues, the Jews will feel "at home" and will receive appropriate access to the prayers of the holy day, with clear explanation and plain language.