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Pesach Information 2020/5780

For our full listing of information regarding Pesach, click here.

 

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to any of us:

Rabbi Elie - 416-910-2083 - rabbielie@fhjc.ca

Rifky Karfunkel - 416-707-9186 - rifky@fhjc.ca

Rabbi Mordechai - 416-845-4119 - rabbi.mordechai@fhjc.ca

Nancy Klein - nancy@fhjc.ca

Due to Government Directives, The Centre is closed for all programs and services. Please join us below...

We have something for everyone, from our seasoned learners to our youngest members.  Simply review the listing of sessions below, make note of the date and time of the class you wish to join and click the appropriate link at that time!

The World of Stories with Rabbi Elie for ages 6 - 12
Mondays & Wednesdays 11:00 AM - 11:25 AM
Monday, March 23
Wednesday, March 25
Monday, March 30
Wednesday, April 1
Monday, April 6

Click Here to Join A World of Stories for Kids  


Concepts in Morality & Ethics with Rabbi Shlomo Katz
Tuesdays 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Tueday, March 24
Tuesday, March 31
Tuesday, April 7

Click Here to Join Rabbi Shlomo's Morality & Ethics Session


Insights for the Pesach Seder with Rabbi Elie
Tuesdays 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday, March 17
Tuesday, March 24
Tuesday, March 31
Tuesday, March 7

Click Here to Join Insights into the Pesach Seder


The Laws of Pesach with Rabbi Shlomo Katz
Wednesdays 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday, March 18
Wednesday, March 25
Wednesday April 1

Click Here to Join The Laws of Pesach


Rabbi Elie's Thursday Morning Parsha Class
Thursdays 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thursday, March 19
Thursday, March 26
Thursday, April 2

Click Here to Join the Parsha Class


Rabbi Elie's Pre-Shabbos Sermon
Fridays 3:00 PM - 3:20 PM
Friday, March 20
Friday, March 27
Friday, April 3

Click Here to hear the Pre-Shabbos Sermon


Rifky's Circle Time for Tots
Fridays 3:30 PM - 3:50 PM
Friday, March 20
Friday, March 27
Friday, April 3

Click Here to Join Rifky's Circle Time

We hope you join us!

Classes start Tuesday, March 17th at 8:00 PM with Rabbi Elie's Insights for the Pesach Seder.

Stay-tuned for our upcoming What'sApp groups for Adults & Kids!

Please forward any questions to rabbielie@fhjc.ca

CLICK HERE FOR OUR ONLINE CHAMETZ SALES FORM!

If you've missed previous online sessions, and want to watch them, visit our YouTube Channel.

Click here to visit our YouTube Channel

Welcome.

The Forest Hill Jewish Centre’s purpose is to nourish individual and communal Jewish connection through Torah learning and the celebration of Jewish life.  The Centre offers the Forest Hill Jewish community and welcomed visitors a warm, vibrant place to enhance their experience of Jewish tradition.

 

 



Adult Programming

 


Learn about programs & special events year round


 

 

Youth & Kids Programming

 


Learn about educational, volunteer & fun programs & events

 

 

 

Your Simcha Starts Here

 

 

Contact FHJC to start planning your events in our Ballroom & Rooftop Spaces
                            

 

 

 

Today's Calendar

Shacharis
: 8:00a

Friday Night

Early Candle Lighting (not before)
: 6:34p
Candle Lighting
: 7:38p
Mincha Service
: 7:38p

Shabbos Day

Shacharis
: 9:00a
Mincha Service
: 7:29p
Havdalah
: 8:47p

Candle Lighting

Wednesday, Apr 8, 7:36p

Havdalah

Motzei Shabbos, Apr 11, 8:47p

Erev Pesach & Taanis Bechoros

Wednesday, Apr 8
View Calendar

 

 


For More Information Please See Our

WEEKLY BULLETIN

 

 

Visiting Us?
 

 

your visitor's guide to Toronto

 

 

Read The Latest From The Rabbi's Blog

 

 

 

 

 

  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=1002513" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Tu Bishvat - Open Your Eyes </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Friday, Feb 7th </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>This Monday we celebrate the special Holiday of Tu Bishvat.  Many of our Holidays require a lot of preparation to make happen.   With Tu Bishvat, it’s possible to hold a “Kabbalistic Seder” which has a Pesach feel to it, and it’s also possible to run all around Toronto in search of the most exotic fruit possible; nevertheless, the main part of Tu Bishvat requires one simple activity that we do 28,800...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=1002513" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=996155" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Lessons from The Moon </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Saturday, Feb 1st </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>I grew up in a small town, essentially at the base of a ski hill. I can remember spending many Sundays bundling up to go skiing. For the first while, I spent more time getting up off the ground (having fallen down) then actually standing on my skis. It was only through perseverance (and being made fun of by an older sibling) that I was actually able to learn how. </p> <p>There’s a famous quote from Mishlei (Proverbs)...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=996155" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=978185" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> The Secret Sauce in the Marriage </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Monday, Jan 27th </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>One of the many beautiful aspects of my job is that I get to learn with grooms before they get married. The challenge is that most of them don’t appreciate what I have to say because they think the honeymoon phase of their marriage will last forever. The truth is, that with hard work, you <u>can</u> get permanent bliss, but only after years of work. The honeymoon phase is a gift from Hashem to let us know what we can achieve...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=978185" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=976193" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Houston, We Have A Problem </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Friday, Jan 17th </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>This past week it was revealed that the 2017 World Series winning Houston Astros had cheated during their playing season!!  All the runner-up teams, the excitement of their fans, all the financial benefits, and the future careers of the players were kyboshed because the Astros, who had been a great team without cheating, decided to employ deceptive techniques and rig the playing field to gain additional advantages. How...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=976193" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=975431" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Rupert The Dog </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Eitan and Rebecca Markus </span> <span class="blog_date"> Friday, Jan 10th </span> <span class="slider_description"><p style="text-align: center;"><br> <img style="width: 345px; height: 404px;" alt="" src="https://www.foresthilljewishcentre.org/_preview/medium/350787_orig.jpg"></p> <p>If you've been at FHJC in the past year and a half, you might have noticed an unusual, furry, four-legged congregant sitting in the men's section or hanging out at kiddush - his name is Rupert and he's a guide dog in training. What that means is that Rupert was sent to live...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=975431" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=975427" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> The Siyum Hashas </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Saturday, Jan 4th </span> <span class="slider_description"><div> <p> </p> <p>This last Sunday over 90,000 people came together at MetLife stadium in New Jersey to celebrate the completion of the entire Talmud in recognition of those that are part of the Daf Yomi Program (a-page-a-day). This Sunday a similar, but smaller, celebration will be taking place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, South Building. Although I was in Toronto for this mega-celebration, I was well-represented by my father,...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=975427" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972133" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> A Memorable Weekend </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Last week was the best "Candlestick Return Ceremony" I have ever been to!</p> <p>Outside of the obvious awesome food that we had, it also contained a few important surprises that I'd like to share with you. For me, there were 3 special features. Firstly, I really did not initially have a full appreciation for the level of care that the Erbe's took in holding onto to these candlesticks. They would have been fully justified in...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972133" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972132" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Smile! </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Our Rabbis tell us that when Yaakov saw his father-in-law, Lavan's negative body language, he knew his days were numbered. Shortly thereafter he fled for his life together with his family.</p> <p>Our Sages see within this simple verse a very important lesson: to keep one's face lit-up with a smile. We know that when we see someone with a cheery disposition, it makes us feel good about ourselves. Conversely, when you see...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972132" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972130" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Black Friday </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Although I will continue my long standing tradition of purchasing nothing on black Friday, I will make a minor exception this year and purchase kokosh from Hermes .</p> <p>To me, Thanksgiving and Black Friday are polar opposites. On the first day you focus on appreciating what you have, and then the next day we behave like we aren't really happy and we need (as George Carlin used to say) "stuff".</p> <p>So, I would just like...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972130" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972126" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Reflections From The Poland Trip </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Last week in Poland was exhausting but invigorating. Our trip took us to many places where our Nation has suffered the worst of brutalities. For many, a trip like this is folly: "Why go to a coun- try with so much blood on their hands? Why support the local economy with your trip?"</p> <p>The answer is quite simple, the positives on the trip outweighed the negatives 100:1. We heard many stories about faith and op- timism...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972126" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972127" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> The Next 2 Cool Weeks </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>I have some news and one cool story to share with you.</p> <p>I am so excited to highlight the next 2 cool weeks ahead of us. Next Shabbos, we will be having our 2nd Annual Maritime Shabbos Reunion. Last year we celebrated the amazing re-dedication of the last Torah from Glace Bay to our Centre. To make this Shabbos even more amazing, we will be hosting a guest speaker during the sermon and after our Mega Kiddush Luncheon....</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972127" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972129" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Shabbos in Vegas and A Mazel Tov </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Rifky and I were nervous about going to Vegas let alone for Shabbos.</p> <p>...O.K., truth be told, only one of us were nervous. I guess I'm just too much of a traditionalist!</p> <p>Shabbos in Vegas with Chai Lifeline was amazing!! To share a Shabbos with other runners, with the amazing Chai Lifeline staff, and with the families that have been touched by the magical work of Chai Lifeline was truly a spiritual...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972129" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972120" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> The Choice Is Yours </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>At the beginning of his journeys, Moshe is referred to as an Ish Mitzri – an Egyptian Man. At the end, after he passes away, he is referred to as an Ish HaElohim – A Man of G-D. Moshe raises him- self up from a lowly state to an exalted one.</p> <p>In contrast to this, Noah, in this week’s parsha, is first referred to as an Ish, Tzaddik, Tammim – a Righteous, Perfect Man, while after the flood, he is called an Ish...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972120" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972119" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Eye Of The Tiger </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Shabbat Shalom and Shana Tova, Wow!</p> <p>What an incredible journey this last month has been. I call it a journey because we hope that not only did we "go through the Holidays", but really the goal is for the Holidays to go through us!</p> <p>What a blessing we had in Vered's youth programing, Zvi's beautiful davening and ruach, especially on Simchas Torah. The staff here has been amazing with most of them being here under...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972119" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972118" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> The Song Of Our Soul </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>There is a Chassidic concept for this time of year, that starting in the Hebrew month of Ellul (one month before Rosh Hashannah), “the King is in the Field”.</p> <p>This phrase beautifully and vividly captures the essence of the high holiday season – namely that the King (Hashem), leaves His palace and comes down into the field (the world) where all the villagers (the Jewish People) live, making His presence that much...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972118" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972116" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Highlighting the Bad to Emphasize the Good! </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>This week’s Torah portion, Ki Savo, is referred to as “the k’lalahs” – the curses! The prophecies mentioned are uniquely foreboding in their nature for those who take the time to read through the parsha.</p> <p>Interesting traditions have sprung up given the gloominess of the reading. Many people avoid receiving aliyahs, as they don’t want to be “cursed”. Typically, no one is actively called up for...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972116" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972114" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> We Are Almost There... </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>We are almost there .... My friends we are 2 weeks away from Rosh Hashana, and there are a few things that are on my mind:</p> <p>We are importing a new dynamic youth leader for the High Holidays: Vered Benchetrit. Her greatest joy is seeing each child shine in their own way! Vered is the Co-Founder of JCreative Group Inc. and is well known as DJ VB Rose, one of the only female DJ's in the Jewish com- munity.</p> <p>We have 2...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972114" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972113" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> A Lesson From A Jewish War </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Jewish Law demands that when you are out to battle, and overtures of peace have not been accepted, you still have some mandated re- strictions. One of these laws is the inability to attack from all 4 sides - i.e. to box them in. One of the reasons given for this is that if you leave an escape route people don't fight as hard. When there is no going back you fight till the end, but somehow, if you know you can run away you don't...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972113" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972112" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Thank You Olami! </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>I am very excited to announce that this Sunday, Rabbi Shlomo and Yehudis Katz will be moving into our neighbourhood to work with young professionals and collegiates. This opportunity exists because of a special organization called Olami.  <br> <br> Olami is a global community of 320 organizations from 28 countries around the world committed to inspiring young adults / professionals to achieve their Jewish greatness....</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972112" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972111" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Shabbos Nachamu </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>This Shabbos is very special for many reasons:</p> <p>1. It is called Shabbos Nachamu – the Shabbos of Consolation which is the Shabbos immediately following Tisha B’Av.  It is considered a very happy time as we focus forward on good things to come</p> <p>2. Our very own Rabbi & Rebbetzin have become grandparents!   Mimi, their daughter, gave birth to a beautiful baby girl this past Wednesday.  The...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972111" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972110" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Tisha B'av </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>My friends, Tisha B’Av is the saddest day for the Jewish Nation. There are 5 main things we are restricted from doing just like on Yom Kippur (No eating, washing, anointing, relations and leather shoes). HOWEVER, another not so famous restriction is that one is not allowed to greet a fellow, that means no saying: "Good Morning how yah doin’?"</p> <p>Imagine a whole day and you can't express a simple greeting to another. To...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972110" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972109" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Moshe's Loss Is Our Gain </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>What a contrast in this week’s parsha!</p> <p>At the beginning of it, we are how Moshe’s brother, Aaron, was to merit having his grandson, Pinchas, succeed him in the role as Cohen Gadol (High Priest). Every parent instinctively understands that there is a certain simcha in being able to see their child or grandchild follow in their footsteps.</p> <p>Toward the end of the parsha, knowing that he has been forbidden from...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972109" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972108" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Tzeitzchem L’Shalom </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Twelve years ago we had a tryout for the Director of Education at the Centre. At that time, we were blessed to have been given a nice donation from Warren and Tali Newfield. (As an aside, Warren used to be Alan Friedman’s boss, and Rifky and I met Alan and Michelle at their Sheva Bracha that Warren and Tali hosted). We interviewed three worthy candidates and chose Rabbi Appelrouth. Over the last 12 years, The Applerouths have...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972108" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972107" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> The Homecoming </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie and Mordechai </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Every now and then, we see such an explicit sign of HaShem's Hand, that it's hard to deny. Two weeks ago, Rabbi Elie received a phone call from someone in Vancouver who said that they had something that they felt should rightfully belongs to us. Being that it was just before our Golf Tournament and Shavuos, we couldn't pay too much attention and the matter was quickly put out of our minds. Sidebar: For those who don't know, The...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972107" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972106" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Climbing Your Way To The Top </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>The joke goes that the reason the Jews spent 40 years in the desert was because Moshe, being a man, refused to stop and ask for directions. (insert laugh-track here – Ed.) We actually just passed an important mile-stone in our journey from Pesach to Shavuos earlier this week – Lag B’Omer which is the 33rd day of the counting of the Omer. This day marks the yahrzeit of one of the great rabbis of the Talmud, Rabbi Shimon...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972106" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972105" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> "What About The Mechitza? </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>With a provocative title like that, it’s no surprise that 50 + women showed up for our first in a three-part Jewish Women’s Learning Series! Focused on issues that address Jewish Women in Modernity (Navigating Modern Times – see banner below…), Rebbetzin Rifky Karfunkel addressed the sold out crowd with energy and enthusiasm. Shimona Petroff, head of our Women’s Learning Committee and event coordinator, commented that...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972105" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972103" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> What Would You Do? </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>How many times have you heard it said “There just aren’t enough hours in the day!”? What would you do if you had an extra hour? What if we gave you an extra day in the week? Can you imagine all the extra things you could finally get to? All those projects and chores that have been sitting around waiting for you to “finally have time to get around to them”… The Jewish calendar is based on the moon, not the sun. As...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972103" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972102" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Closing Purim Thoughts </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>I feel like singing the song Dayenu. The theme of Pesach is appreciation, and Dayenu is at the forefront of this idea. Every step along the way of our salvation would have been enough because each event demonstrated Hashem’s kindness to us. The staff here has been so overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of our community, that we feel we are in a state of Dayenu. After over 300 people showed up for our Purim Carnival, we figured that...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972102" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972101" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Don't Forget to Forget </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>I always remember what I forgot to pick up at the grocery store just as I am pulling into the driveway, coming back from my trip to the store. What a pain! Usually we are told “Don’t Forget to….” This week there is a very special Torah reading about how the Jewish People were attacked by the nation of Amalek, our eternal arch-enemies, just as they were leaving Egypt and on their way to Mount Sinai. Because of the...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972101" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972098" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> "Nachas" </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Nachas “Nachas” is word that is very hard to define. In some respects, it means the pride that you get from the accomplishments of others. When most people refer to nachas they refer to a “parents’” nachas over their kids. A son or a daughter becoming a Doctor or Lawyer will likely fill the parents with nachas. However, I think we can all agree that the best nachas is when one sees their children embracing the right...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972098" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972097" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Our Shivah House Torah </span> </a> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>We are so proud to undertake a special initiative at the Centre to purchase a Torah designed for the purpose of being transported to and from Shiva Houses. In Ethics of our Fathers, it states " The world stands on 3 things: On Torah, on Avodah (Prayer) and on Kindness.” With this Torah being used at a Shiva Service we will be bringing all 3 components together. Please check out the flyers (available on all floors) to learn...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972097" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972093" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Confusing the Two </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>As a Rabbi, I hardly ever get "the lie". That means it takes a long time for me to walk to The Kitchen Table to buy flowers for Shabbos. I make the mistake and ask people how they are doing and they actually have the Chutzpah to tell me the truth, instead of "the lie". I get home two minutes before Shabbos and the best thing I can do is turn my depressed cut flowers into potpourri. However, these interactions do give me an...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972093" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972092" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Kollel Boker </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>This Thursday we started up our early bird learning program. We had over 15 men join the Talmud and Mishnah class. Many of the participants voiced their hesitation about the program the days leading up to yesterday. I told them, just come once. Often the biggest obstacle to doing something great is the thought of doing it. If we commit to doing it just once, repeating it becomes easier and it can get to the point of becoming...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972092" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972091" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Thank You Chabad </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>So there we are, my sons Binyamin, Shlomo and I, standing inside the Chabad shul in Niagara, the first morning of their short mid-winter break. Realistically, the only way we are davening with a minyan is if the shul pulls it off. We arrive at 7:15 and find only the Rabbi's son with his tefillin bag. At 7:45 the Rabbi pulls in. He normally drives to Buffalo or Hamilton daily to catch a minyan. Today he is actually driving in...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972091" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972089" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> What Our Belly Needs </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Coming back from Israel I can tell you one thing for sure: our bellies do not need the all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet in the kosher hotels in Jerusalem. So what does our belly need? The first time G-d gave the 10 Commandments it was with pomp and circumstance. The result was the sin of the Golden Calf. The second set of tablets were delivered more modestly, and those tablets lasted forever. If the rule is that things that...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972089" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972090" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Nachas </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Monday night, as the snow was carpeting our city and visibility was down to 3 inches, I WhatsApped our Maariv group. Shlomo and I needed 8 more for a Minyan and wondered if there were any crazies out there that would join us. Baruch Hashem we have lots of crazies at our Centre, and we made the Minyan without a problem. I once heard that the Jewish people are compared to salmon. While most fish travel downstream, salmon travel...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972090" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972088" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> The View From Above </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Mordechai Bookbinder </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Tu Bishvat – New Year’s for the Trees… Mazel Tov? Isn’t it a little strange…? Since when do trees celebrate holidays, let alone their own New Year’s Day? Tu Bishvat is actually discussed in the Talmud, where it’s recognized that after four months of rain saturating the soil, the trees start to “reawaken,” and the sap begins to flow back up the tree in order to produce fruit. Thus, it’s their New Year’s Day...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972088" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972087" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> My Greatest Challenge </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>The truth is that I have many challenges. That’s why we were put on planet Earth, for Hashem to test us so we can stretch ourselves and become the best version of us. I have many challenges. I procrastinate, I am lazy and I love food…way too much. Sometimes I am petty, but not as petty as you. And sometimes, my Hungarian DNA comes to the fore and I may get a tad angry. However, doing my Judaism by rote is amazingly my...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972087" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972086" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Chaver: Friend </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>This past Wed, Rifky and I were driving to NY to participate in my grandmothers memorial Shloshim meal. Somewhere between Syracuse and Marathon NY a car pulled up parallel to us with mad people and arms flailing. Before I called 911 and said Shema I noticed that these people were none other than Shifra and Elisha Greenberg. How cute it was to be six hours away from 362 Spadina Road and be driving side by side with my neighbours...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972086" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972085" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Thank You Yidel </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>At Sheva Brachot for Ben and Aliza Welkovics, I was schmoozing with my dear friend Yidel Fischer. He shared a beautiful idea that I would like to share with you. At the burning bush there was fire, yet the bush was not consumed. In this context, fire is a metaphor for Torah. While the Torah has the power to refine, purify and warm us, its job is not to consume our identity and turn us into mindless robots. The Hebrew word...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972085" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972084" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Dear Amazing FHJC </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>I wanted to wish you all a nice break, and hope you can relax a little bit over the next few weeks. Recently we have seen three new staff members join our ranks. Our Executive Director Mordechai, has already become one of our elder statesmen. Nancy, with really helpful assistance from Michelle, has transitioned nicely to the office administrator, aka "responsible for everything" job, and now that Faige is married and living in...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972084" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972083" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Thank You Dr. Mark Simon </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Dear Mark, When Arthur Zilbert called to tell me that you had purchased the Torahs from Glace Bay, I was elated. We had discussed that one of the Torahs would find her way into our Aron Kodesh. Being that my first posi0on as a Rabbi was at Beth Zion in Oshawa, I had an inkling of the magic of a small town Jewish community. However, not all small towns are created equal. A collec0on of dedicated, knowledgeable, and selfless...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972083" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972082" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Chanukah and The Daughter of Pharoah </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>When the daughter of Pharaoh saw Moshe in the basket, our commentators say that she stretched out her hand and miraculously her had reached the basket which was very far away. She did what she could and Hashem took care of the rest. When the Maccabees lit the Menorah on the first day in the Temple they knew the Menorah would once again go dark for many days; yet, they did what they could and Hashem did the rest. My friends,...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972082" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972081" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> The Pintelah Yid and Chanukah </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Why do I love Chanukah? It is because the battle of the Maccabi’s was not just a battle against the Greeks, but it was something much greater. At the time of Chanukah, as in our times, the real battle taking place was over the soul of every Jew. Who we were and how we defined ourselves in relation to our Host culture. This is actually a never ending battle. During the time of the Maccabees our Jewish souls won. We won because...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972081" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972080" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Introducing Nancy Klein </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>I am so excited to introduce all of you to Nancy Klein. She is our newest member of the staff and part of the Centre family. I have always wanted to have a ‘Winnipeger’ on board and the dream has been realized! Next, we hope to hire someone from Atlantic Canada....stay tuned. Here is a bio on Nancy, enjoy! Before joining us, Nancy gained over 10 years of experience as an Administrator and Director of Admissions in the...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972080" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972079" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Sister Cecylia Roszak </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>If we are going to take to task all the non-Jewish neighbours who allowed the Holocaust to happen, then likewise we need to publically praise and thank those few righteous among the nations who risked their lives to save us. It is in this vain that we acknowledge the passing of Sister Cecylia Roszak, a Polish nun who was believed to be the oldest nun in the world, and was recognized as a rescuer of Jews during the Holocaust....</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972079" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972078" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> No Words </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>I have no words to describe what an amazing week we just had at the Centre. Our visiting scholar-in-residence, Rabbi Tatz, over the course of a week, lectured to over 2000 people with many hearing Rabbi Tatz speak more than one time. Right before Shabbat, I sent out a video encouraging everyone to come to the Centre to be inspired by Rabbi Tatz and to show solidarity with our fellow brothers and sisters in Pittsburgh. I have no...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972078" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>
  • <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972074" target=""> <span class="slider_title"> Light For Emily </span> </a> <span class="blog_author"> Rabbi Elie and Rifky Karfunkel </span> <span class="blog_date"> Thursday, Jan 2nd </span> <span class="slider_description"><p> </p> <p>Emily is a beautiful, courageous young 4year old girl in our community. She needs our prayers and our good thoughts for a complete recovery. As Emily's family waits 3 weeks for her next scan, let’s add mitzvot to the world in her merit. For the next 3 weeks, please try to: 1. Light Shabbat candles on time, or if that is something you already do, light 5 minutes early. 2. Make Havdala at the conclusion of Shabbat using wine...</span> <a href="/from-the-desk.html?post_id=972074" class="slider_link" target=""> Read More </a>

 

 

 

 

 

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Sun, April 5 2020 11 Nisan 5780