Rosh Hashanah, a celebration of the Jewish New Year, begins at sundown Monday night.

Rabbi Daniel Cohen, of Congregation Agudath Sholom in Stamford, says the celebration started early in the community. He greeted people by handing out honey cake at Beldotti Bakery, an Italian Kosher bakery.

"In Rosh Hashanah, there is new hope for the world, no matter how crazy the world is, but we also recognize in Rosh Hashanah, we ask ourselves, are we worthy of God investing in us for the new year?" said Cohen.

Those who celebrate the holiday have large, festive meals. It's customary for guests to bring a gift if they are invited to Rosh Hashanah dinner. These include kosher wine, apples and honey.

"We use foods to remind us of what our dreams are. So, the apples and honey, the sweetness, the signs," said Cohen.

Traditional braided bread called challah will also be served. At Rye Ridge Deli in Stamford, people have already put in orders for all kinds of food.

"We have the matzo balls, we have kugel and sweet potato casserole," said Wilson Rocano from Rye Ridge Deli.

Back at the bakery, Rabbi Cohen had some questions for people to ponder.

"What am I doing to make the world a better place? Regardless of my faith. how am I bringing light into a world of darkness. How am I making sure that I'm not digging for the dirt in another human being but I'm mining for the gold?" said Cohen.