SPRING 2016

  

BULLETIN

SPRING 2016/5776

VOLUME 88 NUMBER 3
FEBRUARY 28 – MAY 28 | 19 ADAR 1 – 20 IYAR

450 Kensington Avenue SCHEDULE OF SERVICES SHACHARIT/MORNING SERVICE 7:30 AM
Westmount, QC H3Y 3A2 Weekday 7:15 AM
Tel.: 514.937.9471 Rosh Chodesh/Chol Hamo'ed 8:45 AM
Fax: 514.937.2067 Shabbat, Sunday and Legal Holidays 8:30 AM
Direct access: 514.937.9474 Sunday Rosh Chodesh/Chol Hamo'ed
www.shaarhashomayim.org
  Schedule of Services (166) Breakfast/Kiddush to follow morning services on weekdays and Shabbat, except Sundays.
since 1846 Eruv Hotline (109) *If you attend our 6:45 PM early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat services, candles should be lit early.
FOUNDATION SCHOOL: 514.937.9475

ADAM J. SCHEIER (143) | Rabbi SUNDAY – THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28 – MARCH 3 5:40 PM
[email protected] Mincha/Ma’ariv

MAHARAT RACHEL KOHL FINEGOLD (174) FRIDAY, MARCH 4 5:28 PM
Director of Education and Spiritual Enrichment Candle Lighting 5:40 PM
[email protected] Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat

DR. WILFRED SHUCHAT (138) | Rabbi Emeritus SPaHrAasBhBaAtTV,aMyaAkRhCeHl, S5habbat Shekalim, Shabbat M’varchim 5:40 PM
GIDEON Y. ZELERMYER (101) | Cantor Rosh Chodesh Adar II will occur on Thursday and Friday, March 10 and 11 6:32 PM
[email protected]
Mincha/Ma’ariv
RABBI DAVID L. WOOLFSON (123) | Ritual Director Havdalah
[email protected]
ROÏ AZOULAY (122) | Music Director SUNDAY – WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6 - 9 5:45 PM
[email protected] Mincha/Ma’ariv

SIDNEY S. DWORKIN | Cantor Emeritus TRHosUhRCShDoAdYe,sMhAARdCarHII10 7:15 AM
DAVID ABRAMS (143) | Parnass Shacharit 5:45 PM
MICHAEL STERN, CPA, CA (135) | President Mincha/Ma’ariv
[email protected]
PENNI KOLB (133) | Executive Director FRRosIDhACYh,oMdAesRhCAHd1ar1II 7:15 AM
[email protected] Shacharit 5:37 PM
MARTIN BINDMAN, CPA, CA (215) | Director of Finance Candle Lighting 5:45 PM
[email protected] Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat

SUSAN GREENSPOON ZEMEL (182) | PSaHrAasBhBaAtTP,eMkuAdReCiH 12 5:45 PM
Creative Director/Bulletin | [email protected] Mincha/Ma’ariv 6:41 PM
Havdalah
ROBYN BENNETT (146) Member Engagement and
Program Manager | [email protected] DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS

STEPHANIE NAGUS (169) | Booking Manager SUNDAY – THURSDAY, MARCH 13 - 17 6:55 PM
[email protected] Mincha/Ma’ariv

SHERRY SMITH (163) | Director of Foundation School FRIDAY, MARCH 18 6:46 PM
[email protected] Candle Lighting 6:45 PM
ADELIA BENSOUSSAN (142) | Director of Netivot School *Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat
[email protected]
STEWART LEIBOVITCH (171) | Cemetery Manager SPaHrAasBhBaAtTV,aMyiAkRraC, HSh1a9bbat Zachor
[email protected]
Bar Mitzvah of JACOB HOPPENHEIM, son of Allison Rosenthal and Robert Hoppenheim
MARJORIE KIRSCH HEFT and SHERYL SHUCHAT (145)
Sisterhood Co-Presidents | [email protected] Mincha/Ma’ariv 6:55 PM
IRWIN ZELNIKER | Men’s Association President Havdalah 7:51 PM
NAOMI KASSIE | Leisure Institute Chairperson
DR. MEL HERSHENFIELD | Honorary Advisory Council SUNDAY – TUESDAY, MARCH 20 - 22 7:00 PM
FLORENCE MITMAKER | Bulletin Proofreading Chairperson Mincha/Ma’ariv

Publications mail permit #40026378 WFAESDT ONFESEDSTAHYE, RMARCH 23 5:34 AM
We regret any errors and omissions. Fast begins 77::0401 PPMM
We welcome your questions or comments. MFaisntcchoan/cMluad’aersiv/Megillah
[email protected]
PTHUURIRMSDAY, MARCH 24 7:15 AM
SUBMISSIONS DEADLINE: Shacharit and Megillah Reading 7:00 PM
Mincha/Ma’ariv
APRIL 29, 2016
FRIDAY, MARCH 25 8:45 AM
Shacharit 6:56 PM
Candle Lighting 6:45 PM
*Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat

ON THE COVER: PSaHrAasBhBaAtTT,zMavARCH 26 7:05 PM
pinterest.com/shaarhashomayim Mincha/Ma’ariv 8:00 PM
Havdalah

2 | www.shaarhashomayim.org

SUNDAY – THURSDAY, MARCH 27 - 31 7:00 PM Candle Lighting 7:32 PM SRUosNhDCAhYo, dMeAshY I8yar
Mincha/Ma’ariv Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat 7:40 PM Shacharit
FIRST SEDER Mincha/Ma’ariv 8:30 AM
FRIDAY, APRIL 1 MRoOshNCDhAoYd, MesAhYIy9ar 7:00 PM
Candle Lighting 7:05 PM PSAHSASBOBVAETR, A– PFIRRISLT2D3AY Shacharit
Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat 6:45 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:15 AM
SCEanCdOlNe DLigShEtDinEgR TUESDAY – THURSDAY, MAY 10 - 12 7:00 PM
PSaHrAasBhBaAtTS,hA’mPRinILi,2Shabbat Parah, 7:40 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 PM
Shabbat M’varchim after 8:40 PM FRIDAY, MAY 13 7:58 PM
Candle Lighting 6:45 PM
Rosh Chodesh Nisan will occur on Shabbat, April 9 SPAUSNSDOAVYE,RA–PSREILCO2N4D DAY *Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat
Shacharit PSaHrAasBhBaAt TK,eMdoAsYh1im4 7:45 PM
Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:15 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv 8:45 AM Mincha/S’udah Shlishit/Ma’ariv 9:11 PM
Havdalah 8:10 PM Havdalah 7:50 PM Havdalah 7:00 PM
8:41 PM SUNDAY – THURSDAY, MAY 15 - 19 8:06 PM
SUNDAY – THURSDAY, APRIL 3 - 7 7:00 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv 6:45 PM
Mincha/Ma’ariv CMHOONLDHAAY’M–OWEEDDNESDAY, APRIL 25 - 27 FRIDAY, MAY 20
Shacharit Candle Lighting 7:50 PM
FRIDAY, APRIL 8 7:14 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:15 AM *Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat 9:20 PM
Candle Lighting 6:45 PM 7:00 PM PSaHrAasBhBaAtTE,mMoArY 21 8:45 AM
*Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat Mincha/S’udah Shlishit/Ma’ariv 7:00 PM
Havdalah 7:00 PM
SPaHrAasBhBaAtTT,aAzrPiaR,IRLo9sh Chodesh Nisan, CTHHUORL SHDAA’MY,OAEPDRIL 28 7:15 AM SUNDAY AND MONDAY, MAY 22 - 23 8:13 PM
Shabbat Hachodesh Shacharit 7:30 PM Shacharit 6:45 PM
Mincha/Kabbalat Yom Tov and 7:39 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv
Banadr MYoitnzavaShhtoefrAnDAM SHTERN, son of Nathalie TUESDAY – THURSDAY, MAY 24 - 26 8:00 PM
Choral S’firat Ha’omer Mincha/Ma’ariv 9:29 PM
Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:25 PM Candle Lighting FRIDAY, MAY 27
Havdalah 8:20 PM Candle Lighting
PFRASIDSAOYV,EARP–RSILEV2E9NTH DAY *Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat
SUNDAY – THURSDAY, APRIL 10 - 14 7:00 PM Shacharit 8:45 AM PSaHrAasBhBaAtTB,’MhaArY 28
Mincha/Ma’ariv Candle Lighting before 7:41 PM Mincha/S’udah Shlishit/Ma’ariv
*Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat Havdalah
FRIDAY, APRIL 15 7:23 PM 6:45 PM
Candle Lighting 6:45 PM
*Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat SPAHSASBOBVAETR, A– PEIRGIHL T3H0DAY
Sermon and Yizkor
PSaHrAasBhBaAtTM, AePtzRoIrLa,1S6habbat Hagadol Mincha/Ma’ariv 10:15 AM
Havdalah 7:50 PM
B’nei Mitzvah of ANDREW AND BEN KORNE, sons of 8:50 PM
Michelle and Paul Korne
SUNDAY – THURSDAY, MAY 1 - 5
Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:35 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:00 PM
Havdalah 8:30 PM
FRIDAY, MAY 6
SUNDAY – THURSDAY, APRIL 17 - 21 7:00 PM Candle Lighting 7:50 PM
Mincha/Ma’ariv *Early Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat 6:45 PM

EFRREIDVAPYA,SASPORVIELR22 7:15 AM SPaHrAasBhBaAtTA,cMhaArYei7Mot, Shabbat M’varchim
Shacharit
Siyum Hab’chorim, Fast Of The First Born Rosh Chodesh Iyar will occur on Sunday and Monday,
Eating of Chametz until 10:04 AM May 8 and 9

Burning of Chametz 11:00 AM Mincha/S’udah Shlishit/Ma’ariv 7:35 PM
Havdalah 9:01 PM

SEPHARDIC SHABBAT

FRIDAY NIGHT, MARCH 18 Adults $36 | Students (13-18) $18
Children (4-12) $12.50 | Children (under 3) FREE
SEPHARDIC KABBALAT SHABBAT SERVICE
6:45 PM Children's program will be offered

Followed by Shabbat dinner featuring a traditional Sephardic meal RESERVATIONS by Wednesday, March 16
Register at shaarhashomayim.org/sephardic-shabbat3
With guest speaker 514.937.9474 ext. 139
RICHARD MARCEAU
General Counsel and Senior Government Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 3
Advisor, CIJA

REFLECTIONS Rabbi Adam Scheier

Last year, the weeks leading up to Passover religious message we present is to connect on a deeply personal
were more hectic than usual for me. I traveled level, to allow Judaism not only into the heart and minds, but into
across Canada launching the Canadian the “kishkas,” as well.
Haggadah Canadienne, the labour of love that
I had worked on for more than five years. One way in which we accomplish this objective is by our embracing
recent trends, in particular the Pop-Up phenomenon. A pop-up
In each community, I marveled at how people store emerges when a brand takes over a short-term lease; a pop-up
found something in the book with which they could identify. In restaurant is born when a chef takes over a food truck or storefront for
Halifax, the photograph of a World War II-era Passover Seder for a moment in time. At the Shaar, we have also tried this concept, with
servicemen elicited a response of familiarity, as people recognized our “Pop-Up Rabbi” initiative, which saw me setting up shop outside
local community volunteers who were assisting in that Seder, which of Starbucks for a few afternoons in the Fall.
had taken place seven decades earlier. In Vancouver, an archival
photograph of a young woman loading eggs onto an airplane to The essence of the Pop-Up concept is that, while the location might be
help the war effort touched an emotional cord – that young woman unexpected, it is not random. Rather, the pop-up is quite deliberate
would later become a well-known community philanthropist, and in where it takes place. The effective “pop-up” does not wait for
she had passed away just a few months prior to my visit. In Montreal, people to come to it; rather, it comes to where people already are.
Toronto, and Ottawa, some of the people who attended the launches
saw relatives and friends in the book’s photographs, and they found We have been blessed with a period of growth at the Shaar. Our
connections to the Canadian story told in the Haggadah. membership rosters have grown, and our programs and offerings
have expanded. I like to believe that the focus of our outreach efforts
Ultimately, this was our goal with every Haggadah we sold: to – reaching our members where they are, be it at a Seder table, on
facilitate personal connections with the history and the story of the the CD players of their cars, or at a young professionals dinner in
Seder. Griffintown – will prove to be successful, as the values of the Shaar
continue to inspire the generations of our community – wherever
Of course, this message isn’t limited to Passover. The success of the they might be.

EPISODE VDCCLXXVI (5776): KIDDIE PURIM PARTY
A CELEBRATION FOR ALL
Ages 6 years and under
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23
5:30 - 7:00 PM
7:00 PM MINCHA/MA'ARIV FOLLOWED BY MEGILLAH READING Puppet show and hamantashen
decorating followed by
IN THE MAIN SANCTUARY (COME IN COSTUME) Megillah reading
Kids buffet
8:15 PM ACTIVITIES, GAMES, PRIZES, COSTUME CONTEST Children $5 | Adults Free
shaarhashomayim.org/kiddie-purim
(TIME APPROX.) AND MORE! 514.937.9474 ext.139
CHILDREN $5 | ADULTS $10 | FAMILY $30 (MAX)
DINNER INCLUDED PURIM PARTY FOR ADULTS
REGISTRATION AT THE DOOR OR ONLINE
SHAARHASHOMAYIM.ORG/SHAAR-WARS-PURIM F(aOpLpLrOoWx.I8N:G15MPEMG)ILLAH READING
514.937.9474 EXT.139 Dinner and entertainment
Featuring BOA HOANG
4 | www.shaarhashomayim.org Sleight of hand artist and magician
$10
REGISTRATION at the door or online
shaarhashomayim.org/adult-purim
514.937.9474 ext.139

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE Michael Stern, CPA, CA

For the past 22 years,Rabbi David Woolfson has CELEBRATING
been an exemplar of stability and excellence
at the Shaar. Whether it is in a quiet moment 170
at daily minyan or in the great sounds of the
Shofar on Rosh Hashanah, Rabbi Woolfson has YEARS
touched the lives of so many in our community
and beyond. Congregation Shaar Hashomayim
Westmount, Quebec
In June, 2017, Rabbi Woolfson will be retiring from the position of
Ritual Director at the Shaar. We plan to honour Rabbi Woolfson for is seeking applicants for the position of
his years of heartfelt service to our congregation at a special event in
Spring 2017. RITUAL DIRECTOR

Honourary President Jonathan Schneiderman has graciously As a member of the clergy team, the Ritual
volunteered to chair the Ritual Director Search committee. The Director is a full-time position that is integral
committee has already met on a number of occasions, and we have to the ritual, pastoral, and lifecycle needs of
begun to advertise for this position. The intent is to hire a new Ritual our 1,400 family congregation.
Director for the upcoming 2016 High Holy Days, as Rabbi Woolfson's
current agreement allows for a transition year, in which he will impart Position will commence Summer 2016, in
his deep knowledge of the Shaar's customs and ritual needs to his anticipation of the 2017 retirement of our
successor. beloved, longtime Ritual Director.

Finally, effective July 1, 2017, Rabbi Woolfson will be honoured Please email letter of interest and resume to
with the position of 'Ritual Director Emeritus,' a fitting tribute to his [email protected]
devotion to our Congregation.
Canada's Oldest and Largest Traditional
I would like to tcahkaegthkaisshoperpvo'rstaumnietyi'aocnhb! ehalf of Susan and our family Ashkenazi Congregation
to wish you all

DRESS “AS IF”
IT WERE THE 90s

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 5

MAHARAT MUSINGS Maharat Rachel Kohl Finegold, Director of Education and Spiritual Enrichment

The most unexpected character in the Pesach words even unspoken. In order to develop a deeper understanding
Seder is the child who does not know how and empathy for others, we must stop speaking and do more
to ask. In the midst of an evening full of listening.
questions and responses, debates and
storytelling, we encounter an individual Our Sages lay speech in direct opposition to action: “Say little, and
who does none of these. Instead, she simply do much.” (Pirkei Avot 1:15) To be silent not only affords us the
listens. opportunity to attune to the needs of others, but then to take action
We might make some assumptions about this fourth child. Why does accordingly.
the child not speak? Perhaps she is ignorant. Or, maybe she lacks the
confidence to engage in the Seder conversation. It is also possible This Pesach, our Seder tables might be filled with a cacophony of
that at the Seder, much like many family dinner tables, she finds it voices. But perhaps we can find some quiet moments, some ways to
hard to get a word in amidst all the other boisterous voices! be like the fourth child, to speak less and listen more. We might make
Whatever the reason, the inclusion of this character in our Haggadah an extra effort to listen to the messages, sometimes subtle, that we
represents the importance of listening. One who does not speak has a are receiving from family members, from the community, and from
great capacity to hear others, and to absorb new ideas. Psychologists the world at large. May we listen carefully and with intention, and
often refer to “the art of listening” as an important life skill. When then let that listening inform our actions.
we truly tune in to what another person is saying, we can detect the Wishing you a chag kasher v’samei'ach!
messages beyond the words — in body language, in tone of voice, in Happy Passover!

RITUALLY SPEAKING Rabbi David Woolfson, Ritual Director

Can you understand why the Jewish People difficulty is insurmountable. Anything is possible, if only we dare to
have such a profound influence in almost dream the impossible dream.
every field of human endeavour? Do you We are blessed with support from above by a caring God. With this
realize that Jews account for twenty percent faith in God, comes our faith in ourselves and in our future and in our
of Nobel Peace Prizes? Why is that? ability to improve this world. The God of the Exodus shows us that he
With Passover just around the corner,perhaps is constantly involved in our history and our survival.
we can delve into the festival for an answer The Passover story shows that history follows a Divine master plan.
to these questions. To lead successful and productive lives, there are There is an order in our destiny. "Order" in Hebrew is "Seder" and our
several important things that we can take from our early history. You major re-enactment of Passover is identified by that name.
will understand these traits, where they come from, and follow the The way to perfect the world is to begin with our own families. By
trail of success that we have had since the time of the Exodus. turning our homes into places of family togetherness at a Seder,
In our history, we have been told: "Remember that you were we can devote this evening to answering the questions of children.
strangers in the land of Egypt." "Remember that the Lord took you Children are our future. They are the ones who most require our
out of the bondage of slavery." So, we see that remembering is a attention. It is in our homes that we sow the seeds of the future and
biblical mandate that is so important for us. History allows us to grow ensure our continuity.
by standing on the shoulders of giants. Memory links our past to our Finally, as we were once slaves, so we have to have empathy for the
future — to our destiny. History is a guide to living — a beacon showing downtrodden in every generation. We begin the Seder by inviting
us the way to a bright future that is the ultimate destiny of the Jewish the hungry and the homeless to join with us. Learning from our own
people. suffering, we are active in righting the wrongs of the world.
Complementing memory is our sense of optimism. The most difficult Because of memory, optimism, faith, family, and collective
task that Moses had to perform was not to get the Jews out of Egypt, responsibility, we have been able to achieve far beyond what anyone
but to get Egypt out of the Jews. The Jews needed hope. Without might have considered possible.
hope, they would have been lost. From our family to yours, we wish you a chag kasher v'samei'ach!
In the Passover story, we see that the true miracle of Passover and
its relevance for the ages is the message that with God's help, no

THIS WEEK AT THE SHAAR

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LATEST NEWS AND UPCOMING EVENTS

SHAARHASHOMAYIM.ORG/E-NEWSLETTER

6 | www.shaarhashomayim.org

CANTOR'S CORNER Cantor Gideon Zelermyer

On January 27, the largest delegation Each of us has a Holocaust story and our charge is never to forget
present at the General Assembly of the them. Some day, I will tell my boys about their family's story. I will
United Nations was that of Congregation also tell them that I, together with my musical partners from Shaar
Shaar Hashomayim. A group of nearly 40 Hashomayim, honoured their memories before the whole world, and
members of our Shaar family trekked down that each day that they live proudly as Jews, they do the same.
to New York City to support me, Roï Azoulay Chag kasher v'samei'ach!
and the members of the Synagogue Choir
as we took part in a dramatic ceremony on International Holocaust
Remembrance Day.
Pride was the order of the day in a room that often challenges our
ability as Jews to feel it. We were proud to represent the Jewish
community; Montreal's community; The Shaar family; the many
millions who perished in the Shoah. So many layers of deep meaning
were present in that room.
When Haim Roet, a survivor from Holland, spoke immediately before
the choir and I were to say Keil Malei Rachamim, the Memorial
Prayer, it became clear that my greatest challenge would be keeping
my composure. Mr. Roet's accent was that of my late Opa, his story
of survival was the same as my great aunts and uncles, and his family
members who were not fortunate enough to survive went through
Westerbork, the same Dutch transit camp that transported more than
50 members of my mother's family to their deaths. His story pushed
me over the edge and when I ascended the podium and asked those
assembled to rise and saw him standing in the front row, I could no
longer contain my emotions.

MUSICAL NOTE Dr. Mel Hershenfield, Chair, Music Committee

Musical excellence is woven into the fabric Educate - From the earliest forms of cantillation of biblical texts
of Congregation Shaar Hashomayim. through the modern compositions of the State of Israel, music has
Anyone attending our Shabbat and Holiday been at the core of Jewish identity. Everyone who attends one of our
Services has been treated to world-class programs should emerge having learned something about the rich
liturgical music on a level that is the envy of musical and artistic traditions of our people.
congregations around the world. The fluent Perpetuate and reinvigorate - The traditions of our community
operatic voice of Cantor Gideon Zelermyer, are central to our Congregational identity. We honour nearly 170
the robust direction of Musical Director Roï years of Shaar legacy while constantly striving to imbue it with new
Azoulay and the rich harmonies of the choir repertoire, new harmonies and new interpretations.
make our music program very special. Engage and entertain - We strive to create exciting programming
that will take our audiences on an invigorating spiritual and aesthetic
In recent years local, national and international audiences have journey of the senses and the soul, all while having a good time.
thrilled to the sounds of the Shaar Hashomayim in concert.In January, We have assembled a most dynamic and hard-working committee
our celebrity status reached new heights with a performance at the to move these objectives towards reality. Our members include:
United Nations in New York for International Holocaust Memorial Edward Aronson, Bruce Burnett, Harriet Corber, Marvin Corber, Claire
Day. We have something very special and now we are looking to take Berger Fagen, Penni Kolb, Assistant Music Director Ted Lazarus, Robin
our music to the next level. Mader, Eunice Palayew, Carole Rocklin, Jonathan Schneiderman,
Starting in 2016, “SH’MA” is a new initiative that will extend our Lorne Shapiro, Michael Stern and Samantha Mintz Vineberg.
unique musical culture in an exciting direction. “Shaar Hashomayim If “Sacred Echoes”, the multimedia cantata in commemoration of
Music & Arts” is designed to promote performance, encourage Kristallnacht on November 1, 2015, our Shabbat Shirah Shabbaton
teaching, and establish the Shaar as a premiere venue for Jewish and the United Nations Memorial Service are any indication, we
music. are certainly on the right track. Stay tuned to future Shaar Bulletins
The Mission of SH'MA and its committee can be distilled into four and “This Week at the Shaar” emails where we will further elaborate
major objectives which will: upon upcoming programs including the celebration of our 170th
Inspire - We aim to present the highest quality Jewish music that Anniversary when we will host Kent Nagano and the Montreal
will inspire the worshipper, concertgoer, or those listening to Symphony Orchestra.
our recordings, through the music of our services, concerts and
programs, lifting their spirits and strengthening their connection to
Judaism and to our community.

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 7



TORAH STUDIES KIDDUSH
CONNECTIONS
MONDAY MORNING TORAH INSTITUTE
with MAHARAT ABBY BROWN SCHEIER Each Shabbat, we find time for rest and reflection through prayer,
"Real Housewives of the Bible: A Look at the Famous song and study. Please join us in the upcoming weeks to hear
and Infamous Women of the Bible" from members of our clergy team on topics that are inspiring
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM followed by lunch and meaningful for them. It is an opportunity to enrich our
Sponsored by Sisterhood Shabbat morning worship experience and continue our efforts to
THURSDAY JEWISH THOUGHT make Shabbat at the Shaar inspiring, joyous, and welcoming for
with MAHARAT RACHEL KOHL FINEGOLD our community.
"Hassidism for the Non-Hassid" PLEASE JOIN US FOLLOWING MORNING SERVICES
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM followed by lunch MARCH 12 - CANTOR GIDEON ZELERMYER
"Inside the Cantor’s Musical Notebook"
MARCH 26 - ROÏ AZOULAY, MUSIC DIRECTOR
"Opera in Israel"

HELEN AND SAM STEINBERG LECTURE

DENNIS ROSS

DOOMED TO SUCCEED: THE U.S.–ISRAEL RELATIONSHIP
FROM TRUMAN TO OBAMA
TUESDAY, MAY 10 - 7:30 PM

FREE PUBLIC LECTURE

PRAISE FOR "DOOMED TO SUCCEED": American diplomat and
author. Dennis Ross has
“For anyone who cares about “It’s not only great history, been at the centre of Middle
U.S.–Israel ties, this is a must but a guide for the future.” East policy-making in four
read.” administrations, including
Walter Isaacson under President Obama.
Madeleine Albright

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 9

PASSOVER PRE-PASSOVER EVENING OF LEARNING

TUESDAY, APRIL 19

7:30 PM Exploring New Haggadot
Rabbi Adam Scheier

8:15 PM The Women of the Exodus
Maharat Rachel Kohl Finegold

Free public lectures

PRIVATE SEDERS SELLING OF THE CHAMETZ

HAS YOUR EXTENDED FAMILY OUTGROWN Forms available at the synagogue office or
YOUR PASSOVER TABLE? online at shaarhashomayim.org/festivals
Book one of our small, private banquet rooms.
BURNING OF THE CHAMETZ
Call Stephanie Nagus, Booking Manager
514.937.9474 Ext. 169 FRIDAY, APRIL 22 | 11:00 AM

MAOT CHITTIN Donate online at
shaarhashomayim.org/donate
Dear Friends, Cheques payable to Congregation
Shaar Hashomayim Passover Fund.
I invite you to participate in one of our tradition’s wonderful opportunities
to help others. A number of times on the Jewish calendar, our tradition calls Call 514.937.9474 ext. 165
upon us to offer support and help to those in financial need. I am reminded
time and time again of this need, as individuals and organizations approach
our synagogue for support. The complex life stories, the unfortunate turns in
mazal, and the need for legitimate Jewish chesed are parts of the everyday
experiences of many in our community.

In this vein, please consider donating to the Congregation Shaar Hashomayim
Passover Fund. With your participation, we are able to help many in our own
community experience Passover in a way that provides the warmth, the spirit,
and the fulfillment that every Jew deserves, regardless of their financial
standing.
Best wishes for a chag kasher v’samei'ach.

Sincerely, Rabbi Adam Scheier

CANADIAN HAGGADAH CANADIENNE

$20

GET YOUR COPY THROUGH THE SHAAR OFFICE,
SISTERHOOD GIFT SHOP OR AMAZON.CA

10 | www.shaarhashomayim.org

PASSOVER CONGREGATIONAL SEDERS

Catering by the Shaar's Jose and Tania

Each seder to follow 7:40 PM services

FRIDAY, APRIL 22 — FIRST SEDER

A CANADIAN SEDER CANADIENNE
Reflecting our history, our heritage, and our identity

Led by Rabbi Adam Scheier, Maharat Rachel Kohl Finegold
and Roï Azoulay using the new Canadian Haggadah Canadienne

SATURDAY, APRIL 23 — SECOND SEDER

A TRADITIONAL SEDER

Led by Yeshivat Chovevei Torah student Eli Yoggev
using the traditional Haggadah

Every participant 11 years and older will receive a copy of the Canadian Haggadah Canadienne
(compiled by Rabbi Adam Scheier and Richard Marceau)

Until Tuesday, April 5 RESERVATIONS
Adults $80 | Students (11-22) $55 shaarhashomayim.org/passover-seders2016
Children (4-10) $30 | Children (3 and under) Free 514.937.9474 ext. 139
As of Wednesday, April 6
Adults $90 | Students (11-18) $65
Children (4-10) $35 | Children (3 and under) Free

Cancellation Fee of $20 per person after Wednesday, April 13

PASSOVER POP-UP
RESTAURANT

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
CATERING BY THE SHAAR'S JOSE AND TANIA
MONDAY - WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 - 27
Lunch: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Dinner 5:30 - 9:00 PM
THURSDAY, APRIL 28
Lunch 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Lunch $25 | Dinner Adults: $45 | Children (4-12) $20
Children (3 and under) Free
RESERVATIONS PREFERRED
Group seating available. Walk-ins welcome.
shaarhashomyim.org/passover-resto 514.937.9474 ext. 139

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 11

YOUTH AND YOUNG FAMILIES SUNNY DAYS DAY CAMP ASK US ABOUT OUR SUMMER
PARENT AND TOT CLASSES
2 - 4 YEARS CONTACT US TODAY
[email protected] 514.937.9475
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

DAILY | 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
JUNE 20 - AUGUST 12

• Low camper-to-staff ratio
• Sports and outdoor water play
• Art, music and science
• Theme days and guest animators
• Shabbat
• Weekly pizza lunch

SAVE THE DATE

5TH ANNUAL SHAAR-BQ

LAG BA'OMER
THURSDAY, MAY 26
4:15 - 6:30 PM

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Crafts, games, activities and prizes
Yummy BBQ Dinner will be served

RESERVATIONS [email protected] 514.937.9474 ext. 139

SHABBAT IN THE PARK KICK-OFF

SHABBAT AFTERNOONS AT 4:00 PM MAY 28
at Murray Hill Park near the swings 4:00 PM
(weather permitting)
AGES 5 AND UNDER Shabbat Singing Circle
with Maharat Rachel
GRADES 1-6 Sports and activities
led by Shaar teens
Snacks provided. Friends and extended family welcome.
INFO: [email protected] 514.937.9474 ext. 148

12 | www.shaarhashomayim.org

PRE-SCHOOL Sherry Smith, Director of Garderie Foundation School

In pre-school we have a motto: ‘Sharing is Caring’. One of the life lessons
we impart to our Foundation School children is that sharing and caring can
extend beyond the doors of our school and its classrooms.
On a dreary February morning, our children had the opportunity to do one of
the things they like to do best, come to school in their PJs, but this time for an
important cause. The result was our first ‘Wear a Pyjama/Give a Pyjama Day’ in
support of Auberge Shalom, a local women’s shelter whose supplies needed
replenishing. Special thanks to their representative, Joanna Kolb, for getting
the ball rolling.
The event was an overwhelming success on so many levels. With the ‘beyond
the call’ support of their parents, rain-soaked and pyjama clad, the children not
only filled box after box with donations of pyjamas, socks and underwear but
also participated in a life lesson so fundamental to our school – the importance
of mitzvot, acts of chesed and giving back to the community.
We kept warm and cozy on a cold February morning knowing we would warm
the hearts of others.

BRINGING JUDAISM HOME PARENT & TOT

FOR PARENTS OF YOUNG CHILDREN MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS THIS SPRING
NEW SESSION BEGINS MARCH 21
Fill in your religious knowledge and gain some 6 - 24 MONTHS
practical tips for bringing Judaism to life in your home A stepping stone to our preschool featuring
Meets twice a month on ALTERNATING developmentally appropriate activities
TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS incorporating all 5 senses.
9:15 - 10:00 AM in the Beit Midrash. • Gross motor practice and free play
• Art and crafts • Music with a specialist
For the schedule contact Maharat Rachel • Weekly Shabbat celebration
[email protected] 514.937.9474 ext. 174 REGISTRATION
[email protected] 514.937.9475

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 13

SISTERHOOD Marjorie Kirsch-Heft and Sheryl Shuchat, Sisterhood Co-Presidents

There is an article about today's sisterhoods not being "your grandmother's sisterhood". But in reality, it is
your grandmother's, your mother's, your daughter's, your granddaughter's and YOUR sisterhood. In the
spirit of inclusiveness and camaraderie, continue to make it OUR sisterhood!
Help us plan activities that reflect your interests and your goals, incorporating the mission of our
synagogue. Get involved in our upcoming Sisterhood events and projects including a Museum Tour,
Corks n' Canvas paint night, Sisterhood Shabbat, Mishloach Manot and Meals on Wheels. Be inspired
and attend a Torah class given by our illustrious clergy or special guests.
We look forward to welcoming you at our next event!
SAVE THE DATE: JUNE 16 – Sisterhood Closing Luncheon
We are looking for individuals with a flair for leadership to organize a Garden/House Tour in the spring.
To volunteer, contact Sisterhood at [email protected] 514.937.9474 ext. 145

MISHLOACH MANOT PURIM PROJECT

This program has provided members of the Congregation with the opportunity to
fulfill one of the mitzvot of Purim, by sending gift baskets to friends and family.

Volunteers needed to help assemble and deliver baskets from MARCH 7 - 22. To
sign up, please contact Michelle Zelemeyer at [email protected].
Community service hours provided for high school students.
Delivery of baskets is on PURIM, THURSDAY, MARCH 24
Alternate arrangements can be made if you will be out of town on Purim
and unable to receive your package.
Contact [email protected] 514.937.9474 ext. 145

SISTERHOOD GIFT SHOP MEALS ON WHEELS

COMING SOON! A NOTE FROM ONE OF OUR RECIPIENTS:
"Your service is performing an important mitzvah for us and
Kosher for Passover wines and chocolates for others who need cooked meals at home. We feel very
fortunate to have access to such a wonderful service."
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS Can you, or someone you know, benefit from this service?
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Contact Rhonda Herman, Coordinator 514.937.9474 ext. 155

MONTREAL WOMEN'S TEFILAH GROUP

THURSDAY, MARCH 10 | 8:30 AM | Shaar Hashomayim
PURIM, THURSDAY, MARCH 24 | 12:00 PM | Spanish and Portuguese
Megillah Reading
SHABBAT, APRIL 9 | No Service
MONDAY, MAY 9 | 8:30 AM | Shaar Hashomayim

14 | www.shaarhashomayim.org

SISTERHOOD GUIDED MUSEUM TOUR

POMPEII EXHIBIT — MONTREAL MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

FRIDAY, APRIL 1 | 1:00 PM
$20 pay at the museum | Free for museum members

RESERVATIONS shaarhashomayim.org/museum-pompeii 514.937.9474 ext. 139

GIRLS NIGHT OUT: CORKS N' CANVAS

EXPRESS YOUR INNER ARTISTE AS WE RELAX AND HAVE FUN!
You will create an individually-painted masterpiece with the step-by-step instruction
from our professional artist. Perfect for all ages and skill levels.
TUESDAY, MAY 3
7:00 PM Registration and cocktails
$35 includes all supplies and drinks
RESERVATIONS shaarhashomayim.org/corksncanvas2 514.937.9474 ext. 139

JOIN US IN CELEBRATION OF SISTERHOOD AND YOM HA'ATZMAUT

FRIDAY, MAY 13 SHABBAT, MAY 14
8:45 AM
KABBALAT SHABBAT SERVICE CELEBRATING OUR STRONG
AND CONGREGATIONAL DINNER CONNECTION TO ISRAEL

6:45 PM Service led by our youth SISTERHOOD
featuring the SHAAR YOUTH CHOIR SHABBAT SERVICE
Followed by dinner with guest speaker
LIANE ALITOWSKI, Lecturer at McGill Featuring the SHAAR YOUTH CHOIR
Adults $25 Students (4-13) $12 Children (3 and under) Free
ESsisttheerhroMoadrSohvaitbcbhat Chair
RESERVATIONS shaarhashomayim.org/YouthKabbalat SMisatrejrohroieodKiCrosc-Phr-eHseidftenatnsd Sheryl Shuchat
514.937.9474 ext. 139

YGoiludtah BSeernvhicaemCooum,mMiyttreieam Dahan, Isabelle Danino
and Eve Rochman

BOOKS & TEA

THURSDAY, MAY 19 | 2:00 PM
The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan
Reviewed by: LARRY WELLER
$20 includes tea and snacks
RESERVATIONS
shaarhashomayim.org/books-tea
[email protected] 514.937.9474 ext. 139

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 15

LEISURE INSTITUTE Naomi Kassie, Chairman

SUNDAYS AT THE SHAAR

APRIL 17 — 12:00 PM ANTHONY HOUSEFATHER
Liberal MP for the Mount Royal riding
MAY 15 — 12:00 PM TRACEY HILL
Assistant Director of Dominion Gallery and Landau Fine Art
JUNE 5 — 12:00 PM RABBI AVI FINEGOLD
Lead Educator at The Jewish Learning Lab
$5 per person
Lecture followed by lunch
RESERVATIONS 514.937.9474 ext. 139
shaarhashomayim.org/sundays-apr17
shaarhashomayim.org/sundays-may15
shaarhashomayim.org/sundays-june5

25TH "SILVER" ANNIVERSARY Proceeds support the Open Gate Program
of the Leisure Institute
OPEN GATE GALA
To purchase tickets:
MAHJONGG • DINNER • BRIDGE Marlene Dick - 514.731.0415
Suzan Wiltzer - 514.933.5080
THURSDAY, JUNE 2 shaarhashomayim.org/luckydragon-OGG2
LUCKY DRAGON: shaarhashomayim.org/bridge-OGG2
MONTREAL MAHJONGG TOURNAMENT Door prizes and trophies, free valet parking,
partial tax receipt
1:30 PM – Registration
2:00 PM – Tournament opens Honorary Chairman: Naomi Kassie
3:00 PM – Afternoon tea Organizing Committee:
6:00 PM – Gala dinner followed by bridge tournament Etty Bienstock, Marlene Dick, Ethel Gold,
Friend $60 / Sponsor $118 Elaine Mintz and Suzan Wiltzer
6:00 PM GALA DINNER
7:00 PM BRIDGE TOURNAMENT
Options: Duplicate, nuplicate, rubber, social mahjongg
Friend $60 – bridge or social mahjongg
Sponsor $118 / Patron $250 / Benefactor $500
Silver Sponsor $1000

16 | www.shaarhashomayim.org

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS THURSDAY EVENINGS – 7:30 - 9:00 PM

MARCH 10 The Jewish Wedding From the Wedding to the Marriage:
Rabbi Adam Scheier Building a Jewish Home
Maharat Abby Brown Scheier
MARCH 17 Financial Education and Planning
Howard Lohner, CPA, CA Jewish Genetic Diseases:
Making Informed Decisions
Julie Kristof, Chair, Montreal Jewish Genetic
Disorder Fund

MARCH 24 PURIM (NO CLASSES}

Join us for the Young Professionals Purim Party on Wednesday, March 23, 8:00 PM

MARCH 31 Taking the Plunge: Understanding the Mikveh
APRIL 7 Maharat Rachel Kohl Finegold
APRIL 14
The Jewish Sex Ethic
Rabbi Avi Finegold

Keeping Your Marriage Strong
Rebecca Murray, M.A., MFT, Director of Montreal Therapy Centre

Free of charge for Shaar member couples, but open to non-member couples for a fee.
For more information, contact Maharat Rachel Kohl Finegold, [email protected], 514.937.9474 ext.174

MAKOM: A MINDFUL PRAYER EXPERIENCE

WITH MAHARAT RACHEL

Connect with prayer in a personal way. Using readings, brief prayers,
and niggunim (wordless melodies), Makom will offer a space for
mindful reflection and contemplation.

SHABBAT, MARCH 19
11:00 AM
in the Corber Meeting Room (Victor Hall)
followed by the Congregational Kiddush

STUDY GROUP

This new monthly study group meets in participants’
homes to learn Jewish texts and engage in great
conversation.
The sessions are taught by all the members of the Shaar
clergy, on a rotating basis.
Contact Maharat Rachel for schedule and locations
[email protected]

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 17

JACOB ALEXANDER HOPPENHEIM, son of Allison Rosenthal and Robert Hoppenheim, will celebrate his Bar MitzvahSHAAR B'NEI MITZVAH
on March 19, 2016, Parashat Vayikra. Sharing in this simcha are his sister Danielle, brother Dylan, and grandparents
Estelle and Jack Rosenthal and Leslie and Berel Hoppenheim, as well as his aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends.
Jacob is a graduate of Solomon Schechter Academy and is currently in Grade 7 at St. George’s High School. Jacob is
passionate about sports, especially playing intercity basketball for the YM-YWHA Wolves. He also loves performing and
has appeared in several of his camp productions. He will also participate in the National Championship Competition
with the St George’s Glee team. As part of his Mitzvah project, Jacob volunteers with Mada delivering Shabbat boxes
and for Tyndale Community Centre.
SAMANTHA CHLOE SCHWENGER daughter of Jan Goldenberg and Philip Rouben, Brian Schwenger and Laurie
McCarthy, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on April 1, 2016, Parashat Shemini, and in the Akiva Group Bat Mitzvah on April
3, 2016. Sharing in this simcha are her brother Aiden and sisters Lauren, Hannah and Meagan, and grandparents Carol
and Martin Goldenberg and Elisa and Ike Azose. Sadly missed are Samantha’s great-grandparents Miriam and Norman
Goldenberg and Celia and Sidney Berkowitz. Samantha is in her graduating year at Akiva School and will enter Bialik
High School in the fall. Her summers are spent making lasting memories at Camp Kinneret. She is an enthusiastic
member of the Akiva grade 6 basketball team and has been a proud actress in the Akiva Players productions.
RUTH FEINBERG, daughter of Esther and Morris Feinberg, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on April 3, 2016 with her
classmates from Akiva School. As well, her four sisters Tehila, Rachel, Naomi and Sienna, are so very proud of all her
achievements and wish her continued success in all of her endeavours, both academic and extracurricular. Ruth has
been an integral part of the Yiddish Theatre at the Segal Centre for many years. She continues to enjoy her tennis lessons
and looks forward to spending her summers at Camp Morasha in Pennsylvania.

JULIANA GELBER, daughter of Sarit Assouline and Andrew Gelber, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah on April 3, 2016,
together with her Akiva classmates. Rejoicing with her are siblings Emanuelle and Leo and grandparents Simy and
Joseph Assouline and Constance and Eleaizer Gelber, as well as aunts, uncles and cousins. Juliana will graduate in
June 2016 and will continue her studies at Herzliah High School. Juliana is an insatiable reader, plays both piano and
flute, and enjoys basketball, tennis, cooking, equestrianism and swordsmanship. For her Bat Mitzvah project, Juliana
volunteered at MADA.
ADAM HENRY SHTERN, son of Nathalie and Yona Shtern, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on April 9, 2016, Parashat Tazria.
Proud and joyful to be celebrating together are his siblings Sarah, Jake, Isabelle and Grace and his grandparents Helene
and Solomon Kaspy and Amalia Shtern. Sadly missed is Israel Shtern. Adam is a graduate of Akiva School and is currently
in grade 7 at Lower Canada College. He loves all sports and is active in hockey, basketball, swimming and soccer. He also
loves to read and play video games. Adam spends time cooking meals for cancer patients, a cause close to his heart, since
Adam’s brother Jake is a leukemia survivor. He has also enjoyed his time spent in the Bar Mitzvah program with Cantor
Zelermyer and Rabbi Scheier. The Shtern Family is thankful to be part of the Shaar Family.
HARRY DAVID WILTZER, son of Jacqueline Gelber and Mark Wiltzer, will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah on April 14, 2016,
Parashat Metzora. Sharing in the simcha are his older brothers Maxwell and Joseph, and grandparents Connie and
Eleaizer Gelber and Heleena and Eddie Wiltzer, as well as aunts, uncles and cousins. Harry is a grade 7 student at Lower
Canada College. He is a proud member of the debate team and an avid tennis player. In honour of his Bar Mitzvah, Harry
will use his Bar Mitzvah gifts to set up a fund at The Montreal Fluency Center, a non-profit organization offering speech,
language and learning support. This fund will help the center in their effort to provide service to all in need regardless
of their ability to pay.

18 | www.shaarhashomayim.org

SHAAR B'NEI MITZVAH ANDREW JACOB KORNE, son of Michelle and Paul Korne will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah with his twin brother Ben on
April 16, 2016, Parashat Metzora. Sharing in this simcha are his sister Ella, grandparents Sandi and Menni Dayagi, Phyllis
and Jack Korne, as well as his aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends. Andrew is a graduate of Royal Vale Elementary
School and is currently in grade 7 at Lower Canada College. Andrew is an extremely loyal fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins
and the Oakland Raiders. His hobbies include playing hockey and football, participating in fantasy sports, cooking and
hanging out with his friends.
BEN DANIEL KORNE, son of Michelle and Paul Korne will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah with his twin brother Andrew on April
16, 2016, Parashat Metzora. Sharing in this simcha are his sister Ella, grandparents Sandi and Menni Dayagi, Phyllis and
Jack Korne, as well as his aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends. Ben is a graduate of Royal Vale Elementary School and
is currently in grade 7 at Lower Canada College. Ben is a major supporter of the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Chicago
Bears. His hobbies include playing hockey, football and basketball, participating in fantasy sports and hanging out with
his friends.
LEV KALIN, son of Aviva Orenstein Kalin and Michael Kalin, celebrated his Bar Mitzvah at the Kotel on July 16, 2015.
Together with his sister Rachel, he will celebrate his Bar Mitzvah at the Shaar on May 11, 2016. Proud siblings are
Hannah, Rachel, Tali, Avi and Eytan. Cherished grandparents are Pearl Orenstein, and Judith and David Kalin. Lovingly
remembered are his grandfather Avrum Orenstein and great-grandmother Sophie Filler. Lev attends Herzliah High
School. He is a member of the YM-YWHA Wolves basketball team, a hockey goalie and a skier. Lev volunteers his time
coaching the Akiva girls basketball team along with preparing and serving Rosh Hashanah and Pesach meals at MADA.
RACHEL KALIN, daughter of Aviva Orenstein Kalin and Michael Kalin, will celebrate her Bat Mitzvah, together with
her brother Lev, on May 11, 2016. Proud siblings are Hannah, Lev, Tali, Avi and Eytan. Cherished grandparents are
Pearl Orenstein, and Judith and David Kalin. Lovingly remembered are his grandfather Avrum Orenstein and great-
grandmother Sophie Filler. Rachel attends Akiva School. She is a member of the Akiva Blue Devils basketball team and
Akiva Players Theatre. Rachel is also a gymnast and competitive swimmer. She volunteers her time preparing and serving
Rosh Hashanah and Pesach meals at MADA.

NEW MEMBERS We warmly welcome you to our Congregation

Joshua Adams Marla Fox Hirscheimer and Robert Hirscheimer Kathy and Gerald Shtull
Naomi Adams Aviva Orenstein Kalin and Michael Kalin Shamira Klein and Nicolas Topiol
Liane Rebner and Joseph Boloten Frances and Solomon Katz Linda and Howard Wiseman
Stephanie Mamann and Joel Bratin Stephanie Katz and Daniel Lewinshtein Joshua Wolfe
Julie Snyders and Denis Cohen-Tannoudji Matthew Samsonovitch
Caroline Argalgi and Jeremy Cohen Nathaniel Schachter

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 19

OUR SHAAR FAMILY Send your announcements to [email protected]

B'NEI MITZVAH - MAZAL TOV TO: England.
Deanna and David Mendelson on the Bat Mitzvah of their granddaughter Judy and Mark Caplan and Betty Scott on the engagement of their son
Anya Rose Mendelson, daughter of Debi Pomerantz and Michael Mendelson, and grandson David Caplan to Essie Sutton, daughter of Catherine and Dr.
on Shabbat Chanukah, December 10, 2015, in Los Angeles. Bruce Sutton of Toronto.
Neomi and Mel Kronish and Martha Baylin on the Bar Mitzvah of their Adelia and David Bensoussan on the engagement of their daughter Liora
grandson and great-grandson Ryan Abbott Moskowitz, son of Julie Kronish Bensoussan to Ronnie Hauptman, son of Marta and Joe Hauptman.
and Eric Moskowitz and grandson of Carla and Marvin Moskowitz, on Norma and Rabbi David Woolfson on the engagement of their daughter
December 19, 2015 in New York City. and stepdaughter Stephanie Fagen to Josh Leibgott, son of Helena and Jeff
Riva and Carl Gelber on the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson Evan Gelber, son Leibgott.
of Jodi and Dr. Stephen Gelber and grandson of Eileen and David Goldsmith, Penni Kolb on the engagement of her daughter Joanna Kolb, daughter of
on April 2, 2016 in Toronto. Raphael Kolb, to Matthew Morein, son of Beth Coviensky and Michael Morein.

BIRTHS – MAZAL TOV TO: PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS – MAZAL TOV TO:
Terry Kaspi and Moshe Reiss on the birth of their grandson, son of Erin Robert Issenman on being appointed to the International Board of Directors
Elituv and Jordan Scott, on November 8, 2015. of Israel Bonds.
Maharat Abby and Rabbi Adam Scheier, on the birth of their daughter Susan Stromberg Stein on her marble sculpture "Adirondack Nature"
Arella Amit Scheier, on November 17, 2015. becoming part of the permanent collection of The Hyde Museum in Glens
Drs. Oro and Michel Librowicz on the birth of their grandson Yehoshua Falls, New York.
Joshua Bohadana, son of Joëlle and David Bohadana, on November 17, 2015. Victoria Kaspi on being awarded the Gerhard Herzberg Gold Medal.
Lenore and Paul Harris and Ruth Cohen on the birth of their grandson and SPECIAL ANNIVERSARIES – MAZAL TOV TO:
great-grandson Evan Barron Harris, son of Ari Krudo and Kenneth Harris on
November 23, 2015. Lois Pearson Vosburg and Dr. Fred Vosburg on their 60th wedding
Lorris and Robert Frankfurt on the birth of their granddaughter, Ivy Rae anniversary on December 18, 2015.
Frankfurt, daughter of Rachel Koziebrocki and Charles Frankfurt, on December Members who celebrated special anniversaries since the previous bulletin:
20, 2015 in Toronto. Cynthia and Michael Besner, Avi and Brian Cohen, Barbara and Jacob
Alexandra Rubin and Matthew Baer on the birth of their daughter Clara Elkin, Michaela and Stephen Meltzer, Susan and Murray Rosenoff
Lilliana Baer, sister to Henry and Vivien, on January 1, 2016. SPECIAL BIRTHDAYS – MAZAL TOV TO:
Julie and Jeffrey Feifer and Carole and Herbert Feifer on the birth of their
son and grandson Harrison Nathaniel Feifer, grandson of Ronit Kellner, and Rabbi David Woolfson who celebrated his 75th birthday on January 17,
great-grandson of Vera Kellner, on January 4, 2016. 2016.
Susan and Michael Stern on the birth of their granddaughter Zoe Reese Members who celebrated special birthdays since the previous bulletin:
Stern, daughter of Erin Campbell and David Stern, on January 31, 2016 in Sandra Adilman, Stephanie Azrieli, Graeda Beiles, Dianne Bensadoun,
Toronto. Trina Berenson, Walter Bloom, Murray Bloomberg, Sharon Blumenstein,
ENGAGEMENTS - MAZAL TOV TO: Jo-Anne Blumer, Alen Brandman, Muriel Chechik, Colette Chomski,
Vicki and Michael Feil on the engagement of their daughter Marisa Feil to Denis Cohen-Tannoudji, Janice Davis, Kenneth Davis, Joyce Deitcher,
Kliff Ohayon, son of Helen Ohayon and Sam Ohayon. Maureen Dym, Arnold Echenberg, Milene Etingin, Alvin Fagen, Samuel
Stephanie and Ron Oboler on the engagement of their son Joshua Oboler Fayer, Armindo Fernandes, Evelyne Finn, William Gerstein, Jeffrey
to Gillian Reitman, daughter of Julia and Stephen Reitman. Gilman, Sydney Godel, Lorne Gold, Hadassa Gottheil, Mark Greenberg,
Rosalie and Lewis Dobrin and Mitzi and Mel Dobrin on the engagement Stephen Gross, Edith Haas, Nettie Harris, Ellen Jacobs, Steven Katkin,
of their daughter and granddaughter Lauren Dobrin to Justin Klumak, son of Cynthia Kay, Linda Lacroix, Maydee Lande, Nelson Lande, Robin Lang,
Rosalind and Henry Klumak. Ron Lavy, Arlene Lazare, Joan Lazarus, Barbara Lefcort, Mortimer
Marylin and Fred Carsley and Saul Smith and to Rose Yaffe on the Leibovitch, Susan Levitt, Eleanore Levy, Mark Lieblein, Miriam Luger,
engagement of their daughter and granddaughter Dana Carsley and grandson Kenneth Macklovitch, Marc Medalsy, Adria Mennen, Samantha Mintz-
Sam Yaffe. Dana is the granddaughter of Sybil and Martin Carsley, and Sam is Vineberg, Sharon Naimer, Dorothy Niederhoffer, Carole Padveen, Leila
the son of Virgina Fisher Yaffe and Stephen Yaffe. Lovingly remembered at this Paperman, Daniel Paul, Joel Pinsky, Joel Reitman, Toni Reznick, Leo
time are grandparents Goldie Smith, Eli Yaffe, and Faiga and Arnold Fisher. Rosentzveig, Evelyn Schachter, Joseph Schaffer, Marian Schauber, Irma
Sharon and Salim Mouadeb on the engagement of their daughter Lauren Schecter, Herschel Segal, Chana Shapiro, Donna Shore, Evelyn Shrier,
Mouadeb to Marcus Waters, son of Sharon and Michael Waters from London, Augusta (Dusty) Vineberg Solomon, Charles Solomon, Constance
Solomon, Clara Szabo, Mitchell Tessler, Janet Triana, Michael Waxman,
Ralph Young, Mitchell Zlotnik

SAVE THE DATE

SHABBAT, JUNE 4

SCHOLAR IN RESIDENCE
RABBI AVI WEISS

Author, teacher, lecturer, and activist Head of the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale in The Bronx, New York; Founder of Yeshivat
Chovevei Torah, alma mater of Rabbi Adam Scheier; Founder of Yeshivat Maharat for Orthodox women, alma mater of
Maharat Rachel Kohl Finegold and Maharat Abby Brown Scheier.

20 | www.shaarhashomayim.org

TODAH RABAH We gratefully acknowledge the following contributions

ENDOWMENT AND MEMORIAL FUNDS PEGGY AND MELVIN GREENBERG CANTOR NATHAN MENDELSON MUSIC
In honour of Melvin Greenberg on his FOUNDATION
THELMA ADELSTEIN FUND FOR YOUTH AND special birthday, from Natalie and Harold In memory of his parents Mae Chazin
EDUCATION Brownstein; Gloria Burnett; Ruth Cohen; Mendelson and Chazzan Nathan Mendelson,
In memory of Thelma Adelstein, from Dr. Helena Damiao; Feige and Syd Gasco; Sheila from Deanna and David Mendelson.
Robert Franck; Barbara and Sy Frankfurt; Kussner, O.C., O.Q.; Eleanor Roth Latsky; In memory of her parents Clara and Max
Hinda and Bruce Goodman; Sheila Kussner, Petty and Dr. Paul Niloff; Lynn Perlman; Kotler, from Deanna and David Mendelson.
O.C., O.Q.; Carol Myrovitch and Brian Dorothy Reitman, C.M.; Madeleine Ritz; In memory of his aunt Rhoda Mendelson,
Newman; Mary and Eric Ruschky; Laurie and Renee and Joel Schachter; Sheila Schouela; from Deanna and David Mendelson.
Richard Samuelson; Harriet and Bill Star. Rhoda and Paul Shinoff; Rita and Laurence
In memory of her mother Thelma Adelstein, Tarshis; Graida Victor; Shayla and Maurice SHARON AND GERALD NAIMER
from Lorris and Robert Frankfurt and family. Wechsler. In honour of Sharon Naimer on her special
birthday, from Marilyn Aisen; Rosalyn and
MARILYN AND ERNEST AVRITH LISE AND ROBERT ISSENMAN FAMILY FUND Charles Brandman; Shirley Garfinkle; Sandra
In memory of his grandfather Ernest Avrith, FOR YOUTH AND EDUCATION Gutherz; Heather and Robert Hirschel; Arlene
from David Rosenberg. In honour of Robert Issenman being Hubscher; Fran and Leonard Kaplansky;
In observance of the yahrzeit for her husband appointed to the International Board of Minnie and Israel Lipman; Shirley Pascal;
Ernest Avrith, from Marilyn Avrith. Directors of Israel Bonds, from the Issenman Aviva and Morty Ptack; Liane and Danny
family. Taran.
ABE BORDO AND CAROLE ROCKLIN
In honour of Robert Issenman being HENRIETTA AND HARRY KOSTMAN HEATHER AND JOSEPH PAPERMAN
appointed to the International Board of In observance of the yahrzeit for her father In observance of the yahrzeit for her husband
Directors of Israel Bonds, from Carole Rocklin Harry L. Kostman, from Judith Kostman. Gerald Ritz, from Madeleine Ritz.
and Robert Koffend. In observance of the yahrzeit for her husband
Harry L. Kostman, from Henrietta Kostman. SHAAR HASHOMAYIM SISTERHOOD
HELEN AND PERCY CAPLAN In observance of the yahrzeit for her sister In memory of Evelyne Dahan, from Dana
In observance of the yahrzeit for her father Sarah Ein, from Henrietta Kostman. Caplan and Jonathan Goodman.
Percy Caplan, from Deenalil Caplan.
ESTHER AND ANDRE LANDSMAN TAMARA AND JACK A. SHACTER
PHYLLIS AND MOSES DEITCHER In observance of the yahrzeit for her parents In memory of Tamara Shacter, from Rita
In observance of the yahrzeit for her mother Evelyn and Sam Cowan, from Esther and Finestone; Carole-Ann and Brahm Levine;
Ida Rosenberg, from Phyllis Deitcher. Andre Landsman. Vivien and Harry Monn; Shawn Rosengarten;
In observance of the yahrzeit for her husband In observance of the yahrzeit for his mother Ruth and Manuel Shacter, Q.C.
Moses Deitcher, from Phyllis Deitcher. Minnie Brownstein, from Esther and Andre
Landsman. LOIS AND DR. BERNARD SHAPIRO
JEAN AND NATHAN DIAMOND FUND FOR In observance of the yahrzeit for Byron
MEALS ON WHEELS HELEN VERA PRENTIS AND Dolgin, from Lois and Dr. Bernard Shapiro,
In appreciation of Rabbi David Woolfson, LAWRENCE M. LANDE O.C., G.O.Q.
from Ronald Diamond. In observance of the yahrzeit for his parents In observance of the yahrzeit for his parents
In observance of the yahrzeit for Flight Helen Vera Prentis Lande and Lawrence Mary Shapiro Kantor and Max Shapiro, from
Seargent Jack Tritt, from Ronald Diamond. Lande, from Drs. Maydee and Nelson Lande. Lois and Dr. Bernard Shapiro, O.C., G.O.Q.

ROSETTA AND F. VICTOR ELKIN ARLENE AND JACK R. LAZARE JOHANNE AND NORMAN STERNTHAL
In honour of Barbara and Jacob Elkin on In honour of Arlene Lazare on her special In honour of Norman Sternthal for being
their special wedding anniversary, from Irene birthday, from Janice Greenberg. awarded an honorary doctorate from Yeshiva
and Stephen Lipper. In observance of the yahrzeit for her parents University, from Irene and J. Stephen Lipper.
Pearl and Rudy Corber, from Arlene and Jack
DOROTHY AND THEODORE FREEDMAN R. Lazare. DR. HYMAN AND META SURCHIN
In honour of Maharat Abby Brown Scheier In observance of the yahrzeit for his parents In observance of the yahrzeit for her father
and Rabbi Adam Scheier on the birth of their Bertha and Emile Lazare, from Arlene and Dr. Hyman Surchin, from Anne and Gordon
daughter Arella Amit, from Lee Miller and Jack R. Lazare. Kugler.
Rabbi Leslie R. Freedman. In observance of the yahrzeit for her husband
In observance of the yahrzeit for Theodore B. GERTRUDE AND BORIS LEVINE Dr. Hyman Surchin, from Meta Surchin.
Freedman, from Lee Miller and Rabbi Leslie In observance of the yahrzeit for Gertrude In observance of the yahrzeit for her father
R. Freedman; Laurence Freedman. Levine, from Sharon and Paul Levine, Carole- Leon Levin, from Meta Surchin.
Ann and Brahm Levine and families.
DR. SIMON AND LILLIAN GOLD In observance of the yahrzeit for Gail Helen EVA FRIEDMAN VINEBERG
In observance of the yahrzeit for her mother- Levine, from Sharon and Paul Levine, Carole- In memory of her husband Samuel Solomon,
in-law Faiga Gold, from Lillian Gold. Ann and Brahm Levine and families. from Augusta (Dusty) Vineberg Solomon.
In observance of the yahrzeit for her great-
ROSALIND AND MORRIS GOODMAN uncle Hessie Friedman, from Augusta (Dusty)
In honour of Dana Goodman on her birthday, Vineberg Solomon.
from Lori and Bruce Burnett.

To make a donation please call 514.937.9474 ext. 165 DONATIONS MUST BE MADE PRIOR TO
or online at shaarhashomayim.org/donate
FRIDAY, APRIL 29 TO BE IN THE NEXT BULLETIN

Bulletin publication: min. $25 | Endowment Funds: min. $50 | Prayer book and bookplate inscription: min. $100
Donations of any amount over $18 will be acknowledged with a tribute card.

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 21

BARBARA AND EDWARD VICTORTODAH RABAH and Rabbi Adam Scheier on the birth of their MUSIC FUND
In observance of the yahrzeit for his father daughter Arella Amit, from Feige and Syd In honour of Cantor Gideon Zelermyer on his
John Harvey Rubin, from Anthony Rubin. Gasco; Sharon and Salim Mouadeb. special birthday, from Marlene Brownstein
In honour of Susan and Murray Rosenoff and Victor Eichenwald; Natalie and Harold
SHAYLA AND MAURICE WECHSLER on their special wedding anniversary, from Brownstein; Karen and Mark Gelber; Dana
In honour of Shayla Wechsler on her Mickey and Dr. Stephen Miller. Caplan and Jonathan Goodman.
birthday, from Sheila Kussner, O.C., O.Q. In honour of Peggy and Melvin Greenberg In honour of Sydney Godel on his special
on the birth of a great-granddaughter, from birthday, from Norma Gelfand; Anne and
GENERAL FUNDS Madeleine Ritz. Gordon Kugler; Mickey and Dr. Stephen
In honour of Melvin Greenberg on his Miller.
ADULT EDUCATION special birthday, from Christine Victor. In honour of Susan and Murray Rosenoff
In honour of Alice and Joel Raby being In honour of Brahm Gelfand on his special on their special wedding anniversary, from
honoured at the 2015 ORT Gala, from birthday, from Sheila and Larry Sckolnick and Deanna and Sydney Godel.
Judy and Mark Caplan. family. In honour of Stephanie Azrieli on her special
In honour of Alice Raby being chosen Eishet In honour of Professor Ellen Jacobs on her birthday, from Irene and Stephen Lipper.
Chayil 5776, from Judy and Mark Caplan. special birthday, from Rhona and Mel Small. In honour of Alvin Fagen on his special
In honour of Sydney Godel on his special In honour of Laura and Eugene Roditi on the birthday, from Suzie and Henry Rosenhek.
birthday, from Pearl and Michael Caplan. birth of a granddaughter, from Linda Strohl. In honour of Lawrence Yanofsky on his
In memory of her brother Mitchell Saul In honour of Sydney Godel on his special special birthday, from Harriet and Stephen
Greenberg, from Dorothy Lackstone. birthday, from Arlene and Steven Tolensky. Segal.
Donations from Dr. Isabelle Benoit and In honour of Dr. Robert Levine on his In appreciation of the wonderful organizers
Geoffrey Gelber; Nicole and Dr. Richard birthday, from Arlene and Steven Tolensky. of and participants in the Sacred Echoes
Kremer; Barry Pascal; Linda Sigal; In memory of Tamara Shacter, from Carole event, from Malvina and Andrew Adessky
Johanne and Norman Sternthal. and Burt Gilman; Professors Ellen and and family.
Peter Jacobs. In appreciation of Shaar Hashomayim's
BREAKFAST FUND In memory of Laddie Schnaiberg, from warm and welcoming Friday Night Dinner,
In observance of the yahrzeit for his brother Professors Ellen and Peter Jacobs. from Ruth and Amos Gutermann.
Dr. Robert K. Le Brun, from Jean-Charles In memory of Janet Deitcher, from In appreciation of Harriet and Marvin Corber,
Le Brun. Professors Ellen and Peter Jacobs. C.M., LL.D., FCPA, from Grace Michelin
In observance of the yahrzeit for her In memory of her father-in-law Abe Matthews.
husband Seymour Finkelstein, from Ursula Lackstone, from Dorothy Lackstone. In appreciation of Marvin Corber, C.M., LL.D.,
Finkelstein. In memory of Gerald Feifer, from Irene FCPA, from Graida Victor.
and Stephen Lipper. In appreciation of an Aliyah, from Rhonda
CANTOR'S FUND In memory of Goldie Smith, from Irene and Bernard Herman.
In honour of Cantor Gideon Zelermyer on and Stephen Lipper. In memory of her brother Jerry Merling, from
his special birthday, from Malvina Klag and In memory of Arnold Steinberg, from Irene Miriam and Martin Friedman.
Andrew Adessky and family; Rita and Irving and Stephen Lipper. In memory of Sheila Schouela, from Sheila
Baron; Beverly and Michael Krebs; Sheila In memory of George Amar, from Ruth and Dr. Arthur Greenspoon.
Kussner, O.C., O.Q.; the Palayew family; Berger. In memory of Malcolm Lefcort, from Irene
Madeleine Ritz. In memory of Avrum Povitz, from Sheila and and Stephen Lipper.
In honour of Michelle and Cantor Gideon Larry Sckolnick In memory of Janet Deitcher, from Irene and
Zelermyer and family on the High Holidays, In memory of Thelma Adelstein, from Sheila Stephen Lipper.
from Natalie and Harold Brownstein. and Larry Sckolnick. In memory of the father of Stephen Glass,
In appreciation of Cantor Gideon Zelermyer, In memory of Mia Lande, from Bracha Tritt. from Monna and Abby Malkinson.
from the family of the late Masza Wulkan; In memory of Henriette Becker, from In observance of the yahrzeit for his father
the Issenman family; Glenda and Gary Sisterhood Shaar Hashomayim. Ben Rosenhek, from Suzie and Henry
Susser; Reisa and Bruce Vineberg. In memory of Isaie Sweibel, from Sisterhood Rosenhek.
In appreciation of an Aliyah, from Shaar Hashomayim. In observance of the yahrzeit for her father
Bernard Shuster. In observance of the yahrzeit for Donald Levy, Hugo Schwarz, from Suzie and Henry
In observance of the yahrzeit for their from Duane Drover and Gerald Levy. Rosenhek.
mothers Pauline Rosenoff and Sylvia In observance of the yahrzeit for Nathaniel Donation from Jamie Elman and Eli Batalion.
Levenson, from Alta and Harvey Levenson. Levy, from Duane Drover and Gerald Levy.
In observance of the yahrzeit for William OPEN GATE FUND
CEREMONIAL AND RELIGIOUS ARTICLES Levy, from Duane Drover and Gerald Levy. In honour of Melvin Greenberg on his
In observance of the yahrzeit for her mother In observance of the yahrzeit for Eugenie special birthday, from Charlotte and Stanley
Edna Silverman, from Marilyn Avrith. Levy, from Duane Drover and Gerald Levy. Gold.
Donation from Roni and the Honourable In observance of the yahrzeit for his mother In honour of Sydney Godel on his special
E. Leo Kolber, O.C. Pearl Esar, from Maria and Michael Esar. birthday, from Susan and Murray Rosenoff.
In appreciation of Rabbi David Woolfson,
MEALS ON WHEELS from Celia Miller.
In honour of Rona Rochwerg for receiving In memory of her father Henry Greenberg,
the Sylvia Schneiderman Volunteer Award from Dorothy Lackstone.
for dedication to Meals on Wheels, from
Judy and Mark Caplan.
In honour of Judy Caplan for receiving the
Lynn Eltes Volunteer Award for dedication to
Mishloach Manot, from Alice and Joel Raby.
In honour of Maharat Abby Brown Scheier

22 | www.shaarhashomayim.org





CONDOLENCES May the Almighty grant His divine comfort to the bereaved in their sorrow. We extend condolences to the families of the following who have recently passed:

Malcolm Lefcort, brother of our member Stephanie Azrieli, on Our member Gladys Paris, on January 6.
November 9. Claire Chitayat, sister and sister-in-law of our members Mayer and
Our member Shirley Robins, mother and mother-in-law of our Roberta Lawee, on January 13.
members Edward and Lillian Robins, on November 17. Isaie Sweibel, father and father-in-law of our members Sydney and
Our member Moe Segal, November 17. Tronny Sweibel, on January 20.
Our member Masza Wulkan, mother of our member Anna Brojde, Fiby Bensoussan, mother and mother-in-law of David and Adelia
mother and mother-in-law of our members Maks Wulkan and Diane Bensoussan, on February 4.
Grossman, on November 17. Zelma Palef, mother of our member Marilyn Steinberg, on February 6.
Janet Deitcher, stepdaughter of our member Phyllis Deitcher and Our member Clara Rosenbaum, on February 8.
sister and sister-in-law of our members Jonathan and Dianne Deitcher, Renee Gelber, mother and mother-in-law of our members Clarence
on November 25. and Mona Gelber, on February 11.
Our member Goldie Smith, wife of Saul Smith, mother and mother-in- Paul Goldin, father and father-in-law of our members Benita Layman-
law of our members Marylin and Fred Carsley and Sheryl and Jeffrey Pearl and Ted Pearl, on February 13.
Gilman, on November 27. Our member Tobi Klein, sister and sister-in-law of our members
Our member Gerald Feifer, husband of Sherry Feifer, brother and Frances and Solomon Katz on February 14.
brother-in-law of our members Herbert and Carole Feifer and brother- Muriel Segal, mother and mother-in-law of our members Stephen
in-law of our member Sharron Feifer, on December 16. and Harriet Segal, on February 15.
Fernanda de Azevedo Sodré, mother and mother-in-law of our Albert Haber, father and father-in-law of our members Laura and
members Juliana Aouizerate and Elie Perez, on December 16. Eugene Roditi, on February 17.
Lily Toulch, sister and sister-in-law of our members Norma and Howard Martin Choran, brother and brother-in-law of our members Irving and
Gilmour, on December 18. Anna Choran, on February 24.
Thelma Adelstein, mother and mother-in-law of our members Lorris
and Robert Frankfurt, on December 24.
Henriette Becker, mother and mother-in-law of our members Alice
and Harold Lehrer, on December 30.

TO RECEIVE BEREAVEMENT NOTICES BY E-MAIL, CONTACT STEWART LEIBOVITCH 514.937.9474 EXT. 171 | [email protected]

CEMETERY SERVICES

NOW TAKING ORDERS FOR MUMS, SPRING AND SUMMER
FLOWERS
The Shaar Cemetery offers many options of seasonal flowers and
landscaping choices to serve as dignified and beautiful tributes to
the memory of loved ones. We also offer perpetual care programs
that simplify the process of providing flower care over years.
ALSO AVAILABLE:
Monument cleaning service – renew the look of older monuments.

Contact Stewart Leibovitch 514.937.9474 ext. 171 | [email protected]

SPECIAL PAYMENT PROGRAM FOR CEMETERY PLOTS
Members under the age of 65 who wish to reserve plots in the Shaar Cemetery now have the option to lock in the current rate and pay in 10 equal
payments over a 10 year period. The first payment is due upon reservation and subsequent payments will be invoiced annually in January.

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim |   | 25

SHAAR FAMILY Michael Cape, Chair so competent Executive Assistant, beautifully coordinates all our
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN work and I don't know what we would do without her.
As Chair of the Shaar Family Capital
Campaign, I am pleased to report to you An extra special thank you must go to Rabbi Adam Scheier
on our progress to date. and to Marvin Corber, who have been over the top working so
diligently to raise funds.
Our beautiful building is of both
considerable size and age – almost 100 We have started by addressing who we hoped would be our
years old – and is in need of significant major donors. I am delighted to report to you that we have been
and costly infrastructure work. But so warmly received, above and beyond anything we might have
this campaign is more than a bricks realistically hoped for. We are just getting started and have already
and mortar affair; it is a fundamental raised $4 million. The love and generosity towards the Shaar
undertaking to sustain our vibrant Jewish life in Montreal. that has been expressed by a small number of donors is truly
Last fall, we hosted the magnificent Kristallnacht concert in outstanding.
our Main Sanctuary. The concert paid homage to the majestic
synagogues that perished in Germany. As I watched the incredibly But we are just getting started and there is a long road ahead.
moving video, it brought into focus how much the Shaar is the Reaching our target of $8.5 million will be a daunting task, a
central focus of our Jewish community life here in Montreal, and task requiring a lot of hard work from a lot of very committed
how magnificent and eternal our synagogue truly is.It is incumbent congregants.
upon us to turn over our building to the next generation in the
beautiful and sound condition in which it was given to us. To help shed light on the reasons for launching the Shaar
With that in mind, our campaign committee has been hard Family Capital Campaign, we developed two beautiful videos.
at work for over a year now. I must mention each member by They highlight the work that needs to be done on our building,
name, for their service has been truly exemplary. The committee is and what the Shaar means to many of our members. You can view
made up of David Abrams, Mark Caplan, Marvin Corber, Stephen these videos on our website, shaarhashomayim.org.
Gross, Raphael Kertesz, Joseph Paperman, Barry Pascal, Alice
Raby, Michael Stern and Edward Wiltzer. Rabbi Adam Scheier and We are hoping that by the time this campaign is complete, we
Cantor Gideon Zelermyer are also full participants. Marian Levy, will have successfully reached our target goal. This can be achieved
our marketing and communications expert, Janis Levine, our only if we have the full participation of our membership. Taking
fundraising consultant, and Penni Kolb, our Executive Director, care of our building is a collective responsibility. We are counting
complete the team. I can’t thank them enough. Carly Gips, Penni’s on all our members to be a part of the Shaar Family Capital
Campaign.

HOUSE COMMITTEE Bruce Vineberg, Chair

As Chair of the House committee, damage to the masonry, windows and walls of the Main Sanctuary.
I am pleased to give you an update We applied for a heritage restoration grant from the Minister
on the renovations being done at the of Culture to repair these problems — as the Main Sanctuary is
Shaar. There are several areas of our an official heritage site. The Shaar is pleased to report that our
aging building that need major repairs application was accepted and we will receive partial funding
or upgrades. The Shaar Family Capital for this project. The same study also revealed deficiencies in the
Campaign, chaired by Michael Cape, is precast panels (exterior facade) on the sections of the building that
underway to raise funds for these and were constructed in 1967. These issues were further inspected and
other important projects. The campaign is repaired.
off to a good start thanks to the generosity of many donors.
I am happy to report that the renovations are progressing nicely. We have 36 roofs and original copper domes, all in varying
Keeping our building in good, safe condition is a top priority. This stages of disrepair, some with leaks. We redid the roof over Lande
winter, we have upgraded our fire alarm equipment to a state-of- Hall as part of our ongoing roof replacement schedule, and the
the-art system. We installed new fire panels, which can detect with next phase of roofing work will begin this spring.
great precision the location of a possible fire, new smoke detectors,
pull stations, fire bells and strobe lights (where bells may not have Also in the spring, we will install a new chiller and control
been heard). We plan to make additional improvements to our system. Our current chiller no longer conforms to environmental
security system by installing new video surveillance cameras and standards. Moreover, it can only be used in warm weather. The
monitors and improved outside lighting. new chiller will be in compliance with all governmental and
In a vast building like ours, energy consumption is significant environmental regulations and will be functional 12 months a year.
and costly. We mitigated this issue by carrying out a major LED The new electronic controls will accurately – and centrally – monitor
(lighting) replacement project. Throughout the building, we all thermostats, minimizing the human element in regulating the
replaced the incandescent light bulbs with LEDs and we did the temperatures. The new system will significantly improve comfort
same with the recessed lighting fixtures in the Main Sanctuary. and climate control throughout the building.
This change has significantly reduced our energy consumption
and labour costs while maintaining the ambiance of each area. I would like to thank my fellow House Committee members for
An extensive study on the envelope (exterior) of our building their hard work and dedication towards strengthening the Shaar.
identified several problems. Water infiltration has caused severe
We will continue to keep you posted on our progress to date.
26 | www.shaarhashomayim.org