Shabbat Teshuva Derasha

It is customary amongst Jewish communities around the world that the Rav of the community says a Shabbat Teshuvah Derasha (speech) on the Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Although this speech may contain other components, the main objective is that it should inspire the community to reflect upon their deeds, better their ways, and do teshuvah. The speaker should not speak negative or disparaging words about the Jewish people. On the contrary, one should take every opportunity to speak positively about them.

One should do Teshuvah b'simcha (with joy) as doing Teshuvah is a Mitzvah and all Mitzvot have to be done with joy.