Emor

We had a wonderful Shabbat morning service this week. Two people were called to Torah – one for the first time, and one for the first time since her daughter’s Bat Mitzvah in 1997! Kol haKavod to George Haniotis, moved here (we hope to stay) from Quebec, and to Cathy Basskin, visiting from Calgary.

We were so honoured – and were able to extend that honour of being called to Torah – because we had a minyan present. In a variation of a teaching from Rabbi Tarfon, no minyan, no Torah. We need your physical presence. Please take note of the dates of our in-person services and come as you feel able. Lunches are delicious with the Rabbi’s cholent (I am no longer even trying to call it soup), challah and desserts. Most importantly these lunches give us a chance to visit and deepen our connections with each other with holy schmoozing!

That said, we will also continue with providing services over Zoom, as we have a number of members unable to come in person. As you are able, please think about including a friend or two to join you for these Zoom evening/morning services – maybe sharing a Shabbat meal or a bagel breakfast before the service begins, and start the singing in your home. Then let us join you over Zoom. Making Shabbat, bit by bit.

Even as our numbers were few this last Shabbat morning the minute we started to sing – people came through the door until we had our minyan and beyond!! Singing together, bringing our voices together in song is building joyful connection – and can happen in a variety of ways. Wishing you joy this week, this long cool spring brings a glorious cacophony of blooms all over the city. Singing in colour!

Shavua tov,

Rabbi Lynn