With Purim just past, and Pesaẖ looming on the horizon, things are as busy as ever at Beth Tzedec.Engagement When I last wrote, I was getting ready for our family’s first trip to Israel, and now that trip feels like a distant memory—an incredibly special memory. This family mission proved to be a fantastic experience for all five families who participated. For my kids, the...

I write this article fighting the bleary-eyed late afternoon jet lag that I am struggling to shake four days after returning from Israel. My week-long trip with over 35 lay and professional leaders involved in Toronto’s Shinshinim program—a collaboration between the Jewish Agency for Israel, UJA Federation,and over 20 schools, synagogues, and youth...

You can gain comfort in knowing that we are here for each other.If you have faced a moment of indecision, have been challenged by a personal struggle or have had to deal with a tragedy, you can begin to understand how important it is to be connected and be part of a community. People give, respond and are at their best when they deal with other people. People develop, and...

Israeli Rabbinical student, high school teacher and PhD joins us in March. This year, the Anne and Max Tanenbaum Fellow will be Dr. Naomi Dar. She is a rabbinical student at the Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies in Israel. She is a high school biology teacher at Meitarim Ra’anana, a pluralistic high school. Naomi holds a PhD in Philosophy of Evolution and has...

"Our Jewish backgrounds, rituals and customs instantly connect us." A hectic and fulfilling Purim season has just ended for me and Aliza. Our Beth Tzedec Purim Family Musical this year was dedicated to the memory of Jakob Ari Shapiro z”l, a beautiful and special 17-year old boy who was a part of our show for many years and who passed away last June. Jakob’s spirit was felt, and his...