Community Buzz

Synagogues thrive when the community sees a meaningful place where they can grow, celebrate, and find meaning together. Without the support of the community in many different ways, no religious institution has an inherent right to exist. Financial renewal is just one part of that. If family and friends are still undecided on where to attend the High Holy Day services, use your membership to invite them to join us, at a very nominal fee. We want to be as inclusive as possible and enriched from being together.  If you require special consideration, please call Ian in the office (416-633-5500 x22).

The “Youth-Led Blue Jeans Shabbat” last week was a tremendous success with approximately 55 young people and families actively participating, in addition to our loyal regulars. Justin Kay and Jonah Mintz provided the derasha and talked about their very recent experiences in Poland and their unforgettable and meaningful time experiencing Israel as it is today, including coping with the realities of October 7th.  That date will be a day forever etched into our memory and that’s the reason we are joining with 22 countries and 325 communities in participating in the Simchat Torah Project (dancing through tears). More descriptive information will follow on this, but our sincere appreciation goes to Jay Harris for raising our awareness, and then sponsoring this project on the synagogue’s behalf.

There is a Chinese proverb that states "learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere." A good reason perhaps for our Rabbi Cantor, Marshall Loomer, to spend 4 years of study to obtain his Semicha - rabbinic ordination - obtaining a Mastery in Halacha (Jewish Law). As Marshall continued in his studies, he will be receiving a second Semicha in Orach Chaim (practical Jewish law). Marshall is just one of four members of our outstanding clergy team who are leading our High Holy Day services.

We are excited to kick off the season, beginning with the “Reflection & Renewal” program on the September 24th. Also, we look forward to you joining us for the Shabbat dinner on September 27th when we will congratulate Marshall for these accomplishments.

 Finally, we are excited to be introducing a new initiative this year called “Supper with Shinshiniot.” We are providing the opportunity for members to host our new Shinshiniot, Hila and Noya, for dinner. If you would like to see and hear what life is like in Israel through the eyes and hearts of Noya and Hila, including the joys and challenges of being a young Israeli, you will have the chance to invite them to a weekday dinner between 6 – 8 pm. Please contact Karen (karen@karian.ca) to book this rich and fun experience for family and friends