
Simchat Torah Party
A mega Simchat Torah celebration: dancing with the Torah, hakafot, dinner and a party.
Events
No dated events are listed right now. Here is what happens every week.
Thursdays at 7:30 PM
We’d love to hear it.
Thursdays at 7:30 PM
We’d love to hear it.

A mega Simchat Torah celebration: dancing with the Torah, hakafot, dinner and a party.
Sukkot 2026 (about 1 October 2026)
The Chevra Sisterhood's luncheon in the sukkah, shown in a three-minute video on the shul's channel.

Over 1,000 members of our community came together for a beautiful celebration of Shabbat, unity and Jewish pride: uplifting music, an inspiring candle-lighting ceremony, delicious food and family activities.

Over 500 people came together for an unforgettable evening with Shulem Lemmer, with the Chevra’s own Yossi Milo, guest pianist Rami Bar-Niv and the Montreal World Symphony Orchestra. Sponsored by Roslyn Margles.
21 to 23 May 2026
Tikun Shavuot Program on the eve of Shavuot, beginning at 10:45 p.m. On the first day, a presentation by the youth and the reading of the Ten Commandments, with a special Kiddush; on the second day (May 23) a special musical presentation by the Chevra Choir and Cantor Moshe Shur.

The Chevra Sisterhood’s afternoon with Amy Fish, author of three non-fiction books and a member of The Chevra, sharing her stories.
With Amy Fish

A 5-star Passover Seder on the second night of Passover, with family, friends and community, led by Rabbi Asher Jacobson.

An evening of fun, a DJ, prizes, dinner and celebration. Costumes welcome.

Close to 200 people joined us on the third night of Chanukah for a candle lighting on our large menorah in the courtyard, then a festive party in the Singerman Ballroom with homemade latkes, sufganiot, music and dancing.
The Chevra Sisterhood presentation 'Music and Well Being', on the healing power of music, with presentations and musical performances by Heike Margolis (voice and guitar) and Jenny Lewis (flute). Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 1:30 pm.
Roslyn Margles formally donated a 4x4 all-terrain ambulance to Magen David Adom in memory of her late husband Max, at a ceremony at The Chevra. Sidney Benizri, national executive director of Canadian Magen David Adom for Israel, and Chaim Dagan and Raphael Herbst of MDA in Israel took part.

A meaningful and inspiring Shabbat of learning, community and connection with special guest Shabbos Kestenbaum. Proceeds benefited victims of October 7th.
With Shabbos Kestenbaum
Photo: The audience at The Chevra a few weeks before, with cards on the pews announcing this Shabbat.

Over 500 joined Shulem Lemmer and the world symphony orchestra for a night of selections from Leonard Cohen, Fiddler on the Roof, classic Israeli songs and a few never-before-performed compositions. Sponsored by Roslyn Margles.

A 1,000-strong crowd came together for an evening with Douglas Murray, with a special welcome to Emily Austin. Proceeds benefited victims of October 7th.
With Emily Austin and Douglas Murray
An evening with Eli Beer, listed by The Chevra for Monday, August 25, 2025, 7 to 9 pm (place to be announced).

A screening of the film The Tragic Awakening, featuring Rawan Osman. Free of charge.

Our Montreal Jewish community came out in large numbers to celebrate the light and love of our great spiritual heritage, with Mayor Jeremy Levi and Hampstead Council and the many synagogues and Jewish organizations that joined in.
Beit Halochem Canada held its fundraising evening 'Beyond the 7th: Stronger Together' at the synagogue. Retired General Rick Hillier, former Chief of the Defence Staff, gave the keynote; wounded Israeli veterans and survivors spoke in person and on video, Or Cohen, Chen Danino and Liad Grushka performed, and Rabbi Asher Jacobson also spoke.
A Chevra Sisterhood presentation on Zoom, 'Eat Well & Age Well', Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 7:30 to 8:30 pm.

Over 80 young adults came together for a Lag Lights Shabbat dinner party, led by Lieba and Rabbi Asher Jacobson with Channi and Cantor Yossi Fleishman. Proceeds went to The Chevra’s Israel Campaign.

Our community gathered to welcome author, news columnist and editor of Spiked Brendan O’Neill, who spoke about his newest book, After the Pogrom. Sponsored by the Polachek family.
With Brendan O’Neill

The second night of Passover at The Chevra: a 5-star Passover Seder.

The Chevra Sisterhood presented Annette Vezina, speaker on aging well, on Zoom.
With Annette Vezina

Over 400 Montrealers gathered at The Chevra to welcome the Australian broadcaster Erin Molan, in collaboration with Amir Epstein of Tafsik.
With Erin Molan

A festive Shabbat Purim celebration: candle lighting, a gourmet Shabbat dinner and lively dancing, for the whole family.

The annual festive service, with Cantor Yossi Fleishman and the Chevra Choir under choirmaster Yossi Milo. The Consul General of Israel, Paul Hirschson, attended as a special guest.
5 to 18 December 2024
A Chanukah toy drive run by The Chevra and The Chevra Sisterhood from Thursday, December 5 to Wednesday, December 18.

8 times, April to December 2024
The first Sunday of every month: a mitzvah for Israel, with fresh brewed coffee, bagels and lox and a Torah shmooze. Breakfast sponsored by Gary Wechsler and family.

We welcomed Mosab Hassan Yousef, the author and speaker known as the Green Prince, who shared his journey of working with Israelis to thwart terror attacks during the Second Intifada.
With Mosab Hassan Yousef
An opportunity to learn, sing and connect as a community: a screening of the acclaimed movie A Place in Heaven, followed by an inspirational Selichot service led by Cantor Yossi Fleishman.

Close to 350 of our community gathered to welcome best-selling author Mitch Albom, who spoke about his newly released book The Little Liar, followed by a fireside chat with Rabbi Jacobson. He then met every guest and signed books at a dessert reception in Singerman Hall.
With Mitch Albom

The Chevra Sisterhood’s summer concert with Burney Lieberman and friends: Yossi Milo on piano, singer Sam Stein, violinist Istvan Lakatos, and special guests Jodi and Bram Lackman.

August 2024
Over 100 young adults gathered for a spectacular Friday Night Lights Shabbat dinner party, with DJ James Karls and a 5-star Shabbat dinner, led by Lieba and Rabbi Asher Jacobson and Chanie and Cantor Yossi Fleishman.

Our Montreal Jewish community came out in large numbers to celebrate the light and love of our great spiritual heritage. Over 100 Jewish university students received a standing ovation, and The Chevra marked eleven years of leading the event.

We welcomed Douglas Murray to our community: an evening filled with knowledge, inspiration and hope for the future. Proceeds were donated to the victims of October 7th.
With Douglas Murray
Tikun Shavuot Program on Erev Shavuot, starting at 10:30 p.m. On the first day there was a special presentation from the youth and the reading of the Ten Commandments; on the second day a musical presentation by Cantor Yossi Fleishman and The Chevra Choir, with a special Kiddush.
Late May 2024
More than 600 people attended a Beit Halochem Canada fundraising evening at the synagogue. Four Israeli survivors of the 7 October attacks told their stories, among them the reservist Aaron Bours, wounded in Gaza, and several Israeli musicians performed.

The Chevra Sisterhood hosted a successful evening with Marvin Rotrand, long-time municipal councillor for NDG/CSL.
With Marvin Rotrand

A special Mother’s Day Shabbat service with The Chevra Sisterhood, led by Rabbi Asher Jacobson with Cantor Yossi Fleishman, choirmaster Yossi Milo and the Chevra choir, followed by a special high Kiddush luncheon.

2 times, February to May 2024
An evening of refreshments, mingling and inspiration, making a shlissel (key-shaped) challah for the first Shabbat after Passover: a tradition hundreds of years old.

Our annual Gala celebrated the life achievements of Roslyn Joseph, with spectacular performances by Cantor Yossi Fleishman, Gino Quilico, Istvan Lakatos, the MWSO and director Yossi Milo. In partnership with the Azrieli Foundation.

Costumes, a magician, balloon artists, a 5-star dinner and more: a fun evening for the whole family.
A Shabbat dinner held by The Chevra in Florida, at the Altair Hotel in Bay Harbor Islands, Friday, February 2, 6:30 to 10 pm.

3 times, October to December 2023
On Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan, after the Hamas attacks, the shul gathered to bake challah and pray in support of Israel, raising funds to help equip the IDF.

“Tracing your roots” with genealogist Gary Perlman, Ph.D., for The Chevra Sisterhood, in person and on Zoom.
With Gary Perlman

A pre-Chanukah dinatoire followed by a wine tasting lecture by accredited sommelier Carl Bird.
With Carl Bird

Families from across the community came together for an inspirational Shabbat service led by Rabbi Asher Jacobson, followed by a 5-star Shabbat dinner. Chaired by Bonnie and Mitch Rosen.
From 25 October 2023
After the 7 October attacks The Chevra launched an Israel campaign to "Protect, Defend and Rebuild", supporting four projects: moving the Alumim children's home out of Ashkelon, equipment for United Hatzalah's volunteers, relief for victims and families of the 7 October attack, and protective vests for reservists.




Our biggest Shabbat Under the Stars yet, featuring special guest superstar Mendy J: what has become a staple event in our community.


The inspiring story of Rae Gropper. Open to all, free of charge.
With Rae Gropper

A special Mother’s Day Shabbat service with The Chevra Sisterhood, led by Rabbi Asher Jacobson, with a musical performance by Cantor Yossi Fleishman, choirmaster Yossi Milo and the Chevra choir. Followed by a Kiddush luncheon.
Saturdays, 22 April to 20 May 2023
Rabbi Asher Jacobson in Hampstead Park every Shabbat at 6 pm, to learn and discuss the pearls of wisdom of Ethics of the Fathers. All were welcome.

A morning of learning to make shlissel (key) challah, customarily made for the Shabbat after Passover, with Lieba Jacobson.

The second Seder at The Chevra: services and dinner at 7:00 p.m., with services led by Rabbi Asher Jacobson.
Before Passover 2023
“Whoever is hungry, let them come in and eat.” The Chevra’s holiday Maot Chitim fund brings the joy of Passover to those facing far more difficult circumstances than our own.

17 to 21 December 2022
An online screening of the documentary "Reckonings", about the negotiations that led to the 1952 Luxembourg Agreements on compensation for Holocaust survivors; the film link was open from Saturday 17 to Wednesday 21 December 2022. Part of the shul's "Get Inspired at The Chevra" Winter 2023 Program Series.

A cooking class at the shul with Stephanie of Mazon Kit on a creative approach to making sweet and savoury latkes, and how to put together a latke board.

8 and 14 December 2022
A two-part lecture series by Rabbi Jacobson, "The Path to Self Discovery", held over Zoom on Thursday 8 December and Wednesday 14 December 2022 at 7:30 p.m.

A guided kosher wine tasting evening at the shul, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.: France Lamoureux, founder and sommelier of Agence PF, presented privately imported wines from Israel and Spain, and Rabbi Jacobson gave a lesson on Judaism and wine. Light bites were served.
A Simchat Torah dinner at The Chevra, Monday, October 17, 6:30 to 9:30 pm.
A Sukkot dinner at The Chevra, Tuesday, October 11, 6:30 to 9:30 pm.
September 2022
A lecture by Rabbi Jacobson on the High Holidays, 67 minutes long, published on the shul's YouTube channel.

Launched in 2012, Shabbat Under the Stars became the yearly feature event for the Montreal Jewish community. Hosted by the Chevra synagogue and the town of Hampstead, so that Montrealers can share an inspiring Friday night experience, out in the open, under the stars of Hampstead Park.
From 28 March 2022
After the invasion of Ukraine the Chevra community announced it was adopting the Ukrainian city of Bila Tserkva as a sister community, supporting the work of Rabbi Meir and Bracha Holzberg of its Chabad shul to provide food, medication and shelter for residents.
Early 2022
After a most difficult 21 months, with our annual galas, golf tournaments and fundraisers all suspended, the shul asked the community to help secure the heart of our community, our beloved Chevra. Keep our light shining.
Get Inspired at The Chevra, Fall 2021 Program Series: Rabbi Jacobson's lecture 'Honouring Your Father and Mother: the Mitzvah, the Challenge, the Regrets', on Zoom, Thursday, December 16 at 7:30 pm.
14 to 16 December 2021
Get Inspired at The Chevra, Fall 2021 Program Series: an online screening of the Israeli-Brazilian family film 'Back to Maracanã' (Hebrew and Portuguese with English subtitles, 92 minutes). Registration required.
6 to 8 and 15 to 16 September 2021
The synagogue and the Town of Hampstead held High Holiday services in Hampstead Park, under a roofed tent with no walls, on 6 to 8 September and 15 and 16 September 2021, with two services each morning, distanced seating, masks and registration.
14 to 18 March 2021
A two-part virtual event: the film "Hate Among Us" was available to watch from Sunday 14 March to Wednesday 17 March 2021, followed by a Zoom discussion on Thursday 18 March at 7:30 p.m.

A free virtual evening with Simon Jacobson over Zoom, part of the shul's virtual programming while it could not gather in person.

Together with the Town of Hampstead the shul organised safe High Holiday services for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur 2020 in a very large open-walled tent on the soccer field of Hampstead Park, with several short services each day, from the eve of Rosh Hashanah (18 September) to Ne'ila on Yom Kippur (28 September).
Week of 22 April 2019 (during Passover)
Some 600 people came to The Chevra's Passover Gala to celebrate former Quebec Superior Court Justice Jerry Zigman and his wife Carol. The honorary chairs were former Supreme Court Justice Morris Fish and former minister Gerry Weiner; Rob Lurie of CTV News was emcee. The New York a cappella group Six13 performed, and Rabbi Asher Jacobson spoke.
19 and 20 April 2019
The Chevra was one of 11 places across Montreal where MADA held its community Passover seders on both nights, each led by a rabbi and a cantor.

Thursdays, 15 and 22 November 2018
With Rabbi Jacobson: a Kabbalistic journey into life’s winding roads.
October 2018

3 times, May to September 2018
The third edition of the Chevra Business Club, with featured speaker Stephan Ouaknine.
With Stephan Ouaknine, Henry Fiederer and Jeff Hart

Summer 2018
The annual golf tournament at the Club de Golf Le Fontainebleau in Blainville.
Thursdays, 14 and 21 June 2018
Mini Lecture Series: Portrayals of Leadership, by Rabbi Asher Jacobson. Thursdays, June 14 and 21, 2018 at 7:30 pm.
Our youth, the future of our Shul, lead us in services on Shavuot: the Cantor, Gabbaim, President and even the Rabbi trade places with the next generation as we celebrate the giving of the Ten Commandments. With an ice cream party.
A night of study, with lecturers Cantor Yitzhak Epstein, Rabbi Asher Jacobson, Rabbi Myer Kizelnik and Professor Nathaniel Lasry.
For Jewish singles ages 45 to 65.
The 14th annual Sisterhood Shabbat for women, followed by a Shabbat and pre-Mother's Day luncheon. Women were invited to take part by speaking or by making a donation in memory of a beloved mother or grandmother; all congregants were invited to attend.
2 to 14 May 2018
Open to everyone.
A Sisterhood guided tour of the Napoleon Exhibit at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

YidLife Crisis came to the Chevra with a Passover show of authentic YidLife material, and a cameo performance by Rabbi Jacobson.
30 and 31 March 2018
The Chevra, in conjunction with MADA Community Center, hosted Seders for the less fortunate members of our community. Participants enjoyed a traditional festive meal with symbolic Passover food.
The Chevra cordially invited all members and friends to the Shabbat Hagadol Drasha Lecture in the Chevra Sanctuary.
Purim 2018
The Sisterhood sponsored Purim "baskets of kindness" for congregants who were ill, in hospital or had lost a loved one. With the help of many volunteers, 50 beautifully arranged gift bags were assembled and delivered.
A kids’ carnival with games, face painting and ping pong, then the Megillah reading and a four-course meal for over 150 guests by the Chevra’s in-house culinary team led by Chef Alie. DJ James Karls kept the party rocking all night.
January 2018
Shabbat Shira, "Tefilah VeShira" (prayer and song), with the Synagogue Choir under choirmaster Yossi Milo, followed by a Shabbat Kiddush provided by the Parnassim and sponsors. Thanks were given to Allan Tannenbaum for all his dedication to Shabbat Shira.
Lunch and latkes with the Sisterhood.
Chanukah 2017
The Chevra Chesed Committee organized a Chanukah sing-a-long at Le Waldorf led by Cantor Epstein, a festive afternoon that lifted the spirits of the Waldorf residents. The Committee also sent Chanukah greeting cards to members.
Night of the Senses, Tuesday, November 28 at 6:30 pm. Tickets from the office.
A Day of Learning at The Chevra, from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
15 and 16 November 2017
Queen of Chesed, an original dramatic comedy written by Claudia and Pearl and directed by Ellen David, who also played the lead, was presented at the Outremont theatre; both nights were sold out. Its main character, Faigie Jacobson, the mother of Rabbi Asher Jacobson, opened her Crown Heights, Brooklyn home to the needy, homeless, hungry and lonely.
November 2017
Over 100 participants attended Rabbi Jacobson’s lecture series, which focused on patterns that have recurred throughout Jewish history.
The Chevra Sisterhood presented the Honourable Myra A. Freeman, Dr. Victoria Kaspi, the Honourable Kathleen Weil and Dr. Louise Pilote. More than 100 guests came to hear these four incredible women.
With Dr. Louise Pilote, Kathleen Weil, Dr. Victoria Kaspi and Myra A. Freeman

The Chevra hosted Yahya Mahamid, a young Israeli Arab, who came with the team from StandWithUs Canada. The event was sold out, and several students attended.
With Yahya Mahamid

Let’s party!

Be part of something special, in Hampstead Park.
The Sisterhood's closing luncheon, with the artist and teacher Rita Briansky speaking on 'I was born with a pencil in my hand'.
2017 and 2018
The Chevra was the host synagogue for the Beit Halochem program and Israeli war veterans for 2017 and 2018, with a new Chevra Beit Halochem committee.

Golf, brunch and a gourmet dinner at the Club de Golf Le Fontainebleau, in tribute of Usher Zentner z”l.

A lecture by Ambassador Dennis Ross, sponsored by the Max Margles Lecture Fund.
With Dennis Ross
10 to 19 May 2017
Rabbi Asher Jacobson will be leading a Chevra bus on the 2017 Montreal Mega Mission to Israel, the Federation CJA mission, with a direct flight from Montreal to Tel Aviv. The plans include marking the 50 year anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem with soldiers who took part in the battles of 1967, community-wide 'Mega Events', and a track day of specially planned activities.
Joseph Milo conducted the Musicians of the World Symphony Orchestra at the third annual Song of Songs Concert, with singer Prevost Linton, violinist Nune Melikian and Cantor Danny Benlolo: the Mendelssohn violin concerto, a Brahms Hungarian dance, opera and Neapolitan arias and Broadway highlights. Sponsored by the Azrieli Foundation and the synagogue.

The Chevra presents Night of the Senses: scotch, martinis, live and silent auction. Wednesday, December 14, 2016; cocktails at 6:30 p.m., dinatoire at 7:00 p.m.

Mondays, 14, 21 and 28 November 2016
Cooking with the Cantor: three Monday evenings in The Chevra Kitchen, November 14, 21 and 28 at 6:00 p.m.
The Chevra Synagogue and the Canadian Institute for Jewish Research presented a lecture by Rabbi Francis Nataf, introduced by Professor Frederick Krantz, CIJR President and Director. Sunday, November 13, 7:30 pm, at The Chevra Synagogue.
Thursdays, 10 and 17 November 2016
What's in a Name? A lecture series with Rabbi Asher Jacobson, Thursdays November 10 and 17 at 7:30 p.m. Refreshments served.

The Sisterhood’s opening luncheon, with special guest speaker Sydell Stern (Ann Novick), author of Behind Prison Walls, and a book review.

A dinner and dance contest: experience the joy of Judaism as the festival season comes to a close.


A D’var Torah with Rabbi Jacobson and benching with the lulav and etrog, then lunch.
A Talmudic discourse delivered by Rabbi Asher Jacobson in the Sanctuary on Shabbat Shuva, the Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, followed by Mincha and Shalosh Seudot. Everyone was invited to attend.
Sunday 2 and Monday 3 October 2016
The Chevra, in conjunction with The MADA Community Centre, hosted two Rosh Hashanah dinners for less fortunate families, to share the warmth and joy of a festive traditional meal, complete with symbolic food.
A screening of the movie The Last Mentsch, then Selichot services in the sanctuary with Cantor Yitzhak Epstein.
Thursdays, autumn 2016
The weekly downtown Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Asher Jacobson, attended by both men and women. The topic is 'Talmudic Ethics in the Business World'. Thursdays, 12 to 1 p.m., at Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg L.L.P., 1501 McGill College Avenue, 26th floor.
The 2016 Gala of the Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University was held at The Chevra. Honouree: the Honourable Herbert Marx. Keynote speaker and recipient of Tel Aviv University's President's Award: the Mayor of Montreal, the Honourable Denis Coderre.
In the middle of the construction holidays, a Shabbaton with Salvador Litvak, the “Accidental Talmudist”: a full house at Friday night dinner and Shabbat Kiddush lunch, and a sold-out screening of his film When Do We Eat?
With Salvador Litvak
Sisterhood President Sally Raicek led a guided tour of the “Pompeii” exhibition at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, followed by lunch.

The town of Hampstead and The Chevra brought more than 1,200 people together in Hampstead Park: a festive BBQ, music, a candle lighting service and dinner. Just as dinner began came darkness, a summer rain and a full rainbow from one side of the park to the other.
2016 (before September)
A klezmer concert at the shul, organized by the Gabbai, Hershey Fitelberg.
The Chevra hosted its annual Golf Tournament at the Fontainebleau Golf Course in Blainville on a warm and sunny day. Beso Catering served breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the festivities concluded with a silent and live auction.
Special guest speaker Jesse Rabin, Canadian born, who moved to Israel in June 2015, on “A Canadian Pilot in the IDF: Finding My Identity in the Defense of Israel.” A very inspirational Oneg Shabbat.
With Jesse Rabin
The Annual Mother's Day celebration took place with many women from the Sisterhood taking part in the Shabbat services. A Kiddush luncheon followed, sponsored by 18 of the Sisterhood members in honour and memory of mothers and mothers-in-law. Eileen Cohen-Kokin spoke at the Sisterhood's Shabbat service about Mother's Day, from one who 'neither had a mother nor was a mother'.
Following breakfast at The Chevra, prepared by Cantor Epstein, a bus took a group of more than 40 people down to the old Jewish Quarter. Tour guides provided by the Jewish Museum took two groups through many of Montreal's historic neighbourhoods, synagogues, schools, hospitals and cultural organizations, teaching them about the city's rich Jewish history.
A Jewish symphonic concert in the midst of Passover: the 50-piece World Symphony Orchestra, led by our own choir director Yossi Milo, in a packed Singerman Auditorium. Hosted by CTV’s Rob Lurie, with Gino Quilico, soprano Sharon Azrieli Perez, pianist Pinchas Antal and the Kleztory Klezmer Ensemble, and tributes to Cantor Yitzhak and Marsha Epstein.
Over 1000 children enjoyed a day at The Chevra for a Passover carnival extravaganza. It was organized because many Jewish schools are closed during Passover, as a fun day for families; many of the shul's own members brought their young children.

A Purim carnival, live DJ and dancing, a costume contest, Purim arts, the Megillah reading and a gala seudah.

The CCC and the Sisterhood packed Mishloach Manot gift bags, delivered until Purim day.
YAD Super Bowl Sunday on February 7, 2016, from 5:45 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. in the Bonnie & Mitch Rosen Youth Lounge at The Chevra: be part of the action and part of the fun, with great food, great friends and great drinks.

A memorable Shabbat for the whole family, with youth-led services. Kiddush following.

The annual festive service, featuring Cantor Yitzhak Epstein and the synagogue choir under choirmaster Yossi Milo. Special Kiddush following.

On the fifth night of Chanukah, an evening of l’chaims, friendship and good times to bring the shul community together: scotch, martinis, a live and silent auction, and stand-up comedy by Kevin Gasior, Mike Meo and Scott Miller.

The Sisterhood’s annual Chanukah celebration, with lunch, latkes and special guest speaker Elaine Kalman Naves, author of The Book of Faith.
With Elaine Kalman Naves
Families and friends gathered to celebrate this monumental worldwide event, with prayers and words of wisdom from Rabbi Jacobson and a 3-course Shabbos dinner prepared by Cantor Yitzhak Epstein. A fraylich simcha, with a kumzits sing-along of songs of Israel dedicated to Jerusalem.
Dinner with a dance competition. Mish Granik was honoured as Chattan Torah, Jeff Frank as Chattan Bereshit and Paul Baker as Chattan Maftir; Barbara Neudorf received the Hineni Award and Roslyn Joseph the Eshet Chayil Award.
60 women gathered to celebrate Sukkot in Raicek Hall. After Rabbi Jacobson’s words and a lunch prepared by Cantor Epstein, guest speaker Dr. Suzanne Levitz spoke on “Reconciling Jewish Medical Ethics with Modern Medicine.”
With Dr. Suzanne Levitz
A Selichot service and a screening of the film The Return of the Violin.
A talk by Dr. Kellie Leitch, a Conservative Party Member of Parliament, with Robert Libman as a guest. It proved to be an event that was informative and warm.
With Dr. Kellie Leitch
A day of learning, from 9:30 am to early evening.
The Chevra Golf Tournament at Le Fontainebleau.
Maestro Joseph Milo conducted the 50-piece Musicians of the World Symphony Orchestra in Singerman Hall, with soprano Sharon Azrieli Perez, cellist Matt Haimovitz and the klezmer band Kleztory. The programme ran from Bruch's Kol Nidre and Mahler to Bernstein, Naomi Shemer and 'Schindler's List'. Sponsored by the Azrieli Foundation and the synagogue, it was also a tribute to the late David Azrieli.

Scotch, martinis, an art auction and perfume: an evening that, a year later, the shul called a stunning success.
14 and 15 April 2014
The Chevra was one of ten places where the MADA kosher soup kitchen held free Passover seders on both nights at 7:30 p.m., each led by a rabbi and a chazzan, for anyone who would otherwise have no seder.

The Purim Party at The Chevra, Sunday, March 16, 2014: costume party with live DJ and dancing, costume contest, Purim arts and crafts; Purim Carnival at 3:00 p.m., Megillah reading at 4:15 p.m. and Gala Seudah at 5:00 p.m.
12 and 13 March 2014
The Chevra Chesed Committee and the Sisterhood invite members to join the Purim project of distributing Shalach Manot baskets to the ill and bed ridden of the membership and community. Wrapping on March 12 and delivery on March 13.
YAD Super Bowl Sunday for Super Bowl XLVIII, from 5:45 to 10:00 p.m. in the Bonnie & Mitch Rosen Youth Lounge at 5237 Clanranald. Be part of the action and part of the fun: great food, great friends, great drinks.

The Chevra presents A Shabbat of Growth, Tu B'Shevat 5774: a memorable Shabbat your whole family will enjoy. Celebrate trees and life! Shabbat morning youth led services at 8:45 a.m., Kiddush following.
The annual festive service of Shabbat Shira, the Sabbath of Song, featuring Cantor Yitzhak Epstein and our inspirational synagogue choir under choirmaster Yossi Milo. Special Kiddush following services.
A Chanukah skating evening: bring your own skates and helmets.
The Sisterhood opening luncheon, with guest speaker Rebbetzin Simcha Fine in her continuing Kabbalah series. Her topic was the “Kabbalah of Emotion and Anger Management”.
A spectacular Tribute Gala honouring Rabbi Asher and Lieba Jacobson and Martin and Tina Rosenthal, with 500 guests. Comedian Elon Gold delivered big on laughs, Jack Rothenberg was a superb M.C., and Jason Kenney, representing the Government of Canada, spoke very meaningfully.
With Jason Kenney
The Sisterhood Sukkah Luncheon was held with Rabbi Asher Jacobson, who spoke on the topic of "Rabbi or Rebbetzin". Each lady was able to participate in a prayer with the lulav and etrog, and the ladies enjoyed a wonderful luncheon in warm and sunny weather.
The synagogue held its annual carnival and barbecue for the whole family at Hampstead Park.
A gala concert with cantors from all over North America, in memory of Cantor Yossele Rosenblatt z”l.
The Chevra and Beth Ora congregations held a joint golf tournament at Club Val des Lacs in Ste. Sophie.
Our youth, the future of our shul, led us in services on Shavuot: the Cantor, Gabbaim, President and even the Rabbi traded seats with the next generation. Followed by a gigantic ice cream party.
Spring 2013
The CJN listed the Chevra Gala, honouring Rabbi Asher Jacobson and his wife Lieba, and Tina and Martin Rosenthal, for Thursday 6 June 2013.
An innovative program and Divrei Torah presented by the Sisterhood of our synagogue, featuring the Chevra choir under choirmaster Yossi Milo, followed by a Kiddush luncheon.
A new weekly class on the Tanya, Thursdays at the Chevra, starting May 2. All welcome, no charge.
A wonderful afternoon for friends and family, with a beautiful sweet table, an exciting program and vendors on the premises.
A community Passover Seder with Rabbi Jacobson and Cantor Epstein: services and dinner.
Services followed by a delicious full course dinner.
February 2013
Chag Purim Sameach! The shul’s photo gallery of the day.
8 to 10 February 2013
A weekend of inspiration, learning, friendship and delicious cuisine in the beautiful Laurentians, at the Mont-Gabriel Hotel & Resort.
The Shabbat of Song, featuring Cantor Yitzhak Epstein and our inspirational synagogue choir under the direction of choirmaster Yossi Milo.
A memorable Shabbat for the whole family for Tu B’Shevat: celebrate trees and life! Youth-led services, with a Kiddush following.
19 December 2012 and 16 January 2013
Come and enjoy an evening of bowling. Have fun and meet other singles.
Chevra Singles 45+ held a Chanukah dance at 8 p.m.

A raffle ticket was your invitation to a fun-filled Chanukah celebration, with a Chanukah buffet, open bar and sweet table.
About 19 November 2012
Alan Baker, Israel’s ambassador to Canada from 2004 to 2008, spoke at the synagogue. The talk was organised by the Canadian Institute for Jewish Research.
Filmmaker and 'laughologist' Albert Nerenberg was guest speaker at a Shabbaton evening of food and wine for Jewish singles 45 and over.
Thursdays, 25 October and 1 November 2012
A mini series with Rabbi Asher Jacobson.
The Chevra Sisterhood presents “Ten Green Bottles”: a tale of survival and hope.
A gala Simchat Torah celebration at 6:15 p.m., with singing, dancing and a full-course dinner.
Family Fun Day in Hampstead Park (Fleet and Queen Mary Rd.), Thursday, August 30, 2012, 3:30 to 7:00 p.m.: inflatable rides, live DJ, treasure hunt, soccer baseball, races, animators, bar-b-que, face painting. Sponsor: Town of Hampstead.
The Sisterhood held an evening of advice and demonstrations with makeup expert Steven Reti and the Shmink Cosmetics team, from 6:45 p.m., at Salon Evita on Décarie Boulevard.
Wednesdays, 1 to 22 August 2012
The Chevra Singles Committee ran four 'Meet Your Match' dance classes, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., taught by the instructor Rosario: cha-cha, rock 'n' roll, foxtrot and salsa.
A fun-filled day at the Val-des-Lacs Country Club in Ste Sophie, with l’chaims and food at each hole, ending with cocktails, dinner, door prizes and auctions. One of our major yearly fundraisers, held together with the Beth Ora Synagogue.
Yehuda Stolov, executive director of the Interfaith Encounter Association in Jerusalem, spoke at 7:30 p.m. about bringing Jewish, Muslim and other neighbours together in dialogue groups, and showed a short video.

A New Member Shabbat honouring the members who joined the shul this past year. The President asked members to RSVP and come meet the new members.
A Shabbaton with Richard Marceau, author of A Quebec Jew: Kabbalat Shabbat, a Friday night dinner and a formal talk by Richard.
With Richard Marceau
The youth, the future of the shul, led the services on Shavuot: the Cantor, Gabbaim, President and even the Rabbi traded seats with the next generation to celebrate the giving of the 10 Commandments. The services were followed by a special dairy Shavuot Kiddush and ice cream party.
Tikkun Leyl Shavuot at 10:30 p.m. on the first night of Shavuot.
May 2012 to June 2013
By popular demand, an adult Bat Mitzvah program for the Jewish women of Montreal: weekly classes for more than 13 months, with Rabbi Jacobson and guest rabbis and teachers, ending in a gala Bat Mitzvah celebration for the graduates and their families.
With Lisa Steinmetz, Rabbi S. Emanuel, Rabbi Adam Scheier, Rebbetzin Chana Carlebach, Rabbi Sydney Shoham, Rabbi Mordechai Zeitz, Rabbi Reuben Poupko, Rabbi Schachar Orenstein, Rabbi Boruch Perton, Julie Gniwisch, Rabbi Michael Whitman, Nechama Mintz, Rabbi Moshe Jablon, Rabbi Yossi Shanowitz, Rabbi Emanuel Carlebach, Vivian Kaplan, Rabbi Dr. Barry Levy, Rabbi Mark Fishman, Abe Worenklein, Rabbi Ronnie Fine and Rabbi Michael Wolff
A Shabbat to meet Joannie Tansky, the author of a warm and entertaining book. A Kiddush luncheon and her presentation followed the service.
The Chevra invited its members and the community to its annual Sisterhood Shabbat, with an innovative program and Divrei Torah presented by the Sisterhood of the Synagogue, featuring the Synagogue Choir under the leadership of Yossi Milo, Choir Master. A Kiddush luncheon followed services.
Friday 11 and Saturday 12 May 2012
A Shabbaton with Charlie Harary, described as an incredible role model and inspiration for teens and young adults, sponsored by President Gary Polachek and his wife Claudia. It included a Friday night dinner catered by Le Ballroom, a talk during Kiddush on Saturday and a special get together with Charlie planned for the Saturday night.
Spring 2012
Rabbi Jacobson’s Kabbalah series explores the mystical dimensions of the soul and the deeper meanings of life and spirituality. The series that began in May 2012 was on the Kabbalah of Jewish Symbols.
The shul featured the special prayer service compiled for Yom Ha'atzmaut at its services on the eve and morning of the day.
Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m., 25 April to 12 September 2012
A weekly Parasha class at 1:00 p.m., listed in the shul's calendar of upcoming events from April to September 2012.
At the morning service, Yahrzeit candles were to be lit in memory of the 6 million martyrs, with appropriate Psalms, a community Kaddish and the Memorial Prayer, Kel Ma'aleh Rachamim. Members were invited to come and worship and to light their own memorial candles at home.
Friday 6 and Saturday 7 April 2012
Congregation Chevra Kadisha B'nai Jacob, in conjunction with the Mada Community Centre, hosted two Seders to share the warmth and joy of a traditional meal, complete with symbolic food and festive dinner.
A first Seder as a shul community with Rabbi Jacobson and Cantor Epstein: an inspirational Seder complete with original hand baked Shmurah Matzah, four cups of kosher wine and a gourmet Passover dinner. All were welcome.
Thursdays, 12 to 1 p.m., spring 2012
A weekly downtown Lunch & Learn with Rabbi Asher Jacobson, attended by both men and women, on the topic 'Business Ethics in Jewish Law'. It met on Thursdays at Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg, 1501 McGill College Avenue, 26th floor.
Before Passover, spring 2012
Rabbi Asher Jacobson asked members to remember those who lack the ability to prepare for a costly Passover holiday. Through the office, members could help provide 'kimcha dePischa': matzo, wine and all Passover needs for Jewish families in the community, distributed on a discrete basis.
The Chevra invited all members and friends to the Shabbat Hagadol Drasha lecture in the Sanctuary, followed by Mincha. Tradition prescribes such learned gatherings in preparation of the Festival of Freedom.

Pre-Passover Shabbaton for members, family and friends, Friday, March 30th 2012. Services at 6:00 pm, followed by a full course dinner catered by Le Ballroom.
In its first year the Chevra Singles 45+ program held a Purim Seudah and Dance. The same page says the program's first event was a Shabbaton with Rabbi Jacobson speaking about relationships, followed by a Chanukah dance attended by over 100 Jewish singles and a talk on relationships by Dr. Laurie Betito at Valentine's Day.
The lobby of The Chevra was filled with volunteers, baskets, wrapping, ribbons and goodies for the annual Purim Mishloach Manot Project, a joint project of Sisterhood and the Chevra Chesed Committee. Over 50 baskets were wrapped and delivered by volunteer drivers to members in senior residences, who are homebound, or in a hospital or rehab centre.
The Project Shabbos committee, led by Lieba Jacobson, began a challah baking group that will meet once a month. The first session took place at the home of Rabbi Asher and Lieba Jacobson; twelve women were guided by expert challah baker Osnat Feldman, and Rabbi Jacobson shared a d'var Torah while the challah was rising.
Purim, March 2012
A beautiful, well attended and fun Purim celebration, with a kids' carnival, a child-friendly Megillah reading and a catered seudah dinner. The President was particularly pleased with the number of young families who attended. The Creative Preschool collaborated on it.
A Chevra Singles speaker's event for Jewish singles 45+. The speaker was Dr. Laurie Betito, psychotherapist, sexologist and host of 'Passion' on CJAD Radio 800. Over 60 singles were treated to a talk on the myths of relationships, followed by a question and answer period and a dessert buffet.
The YAD's 2012 Super Bowl Party was held in the Rosen Youth Lounge. It was one of the largest gatherings the group had ever had and made for a very warm and exciting evening.
Winter 2012
Once again this year the shul had a very special Tu B'Shevat Environment Shabbat that included special participation from its youth during Shabbat services.
Winter 2012
The choir, under the direction of Yossi Milo, with Cantor Yitzhak Epstein, treated the congregation to an uplifting and melodic Shabbat Shira, with an inspiring sermon by Rabbi Asher Jacobson. Much of the new music introduced came from the collections of cantors who served the Chevra Kadisha and B'nai Jacob in their original locations. Gabbai Allan Tannenbaum was presented with a plaque for his outstanding work for Shabbat Shira.
Weekly, school year 2011-2012
Once a week teens aged 12 to 14 met in the synagogue at 4:30 for snacks and a half hour to socialize, then a class at 5 o'clock in the Rosen Youth Lounge, each week on a new topic of Jewish ideas. Lecturers so far included Rabbi Jacobson (the ethical perspective; honouring your mother and father), Rabbi Weinbaum (life behind the wheel), Dr Moshe Blank, Rabbi Pinny Gnewisch, Samantha Druzen, Rabbi David Lazar, Mrs. Elias, Michelle Zelermyer and Rabbi Orenstein (Tu B'Shevat and the importance of the land of Israel).
The second opportunity for Jewish singles 45+ to mix and mingle, at a pre-Chanukah dance on Saturday night at The Chevra. Over 100 singles dined on traditional Chanukah foods and danced to the music of Yehuda Pinto. Rabbi Asher Jacobson did the Havdallah service and discussed the meaning of Chanukah, followed by an interactive discussion.
December 2011
The shul celebrated a meaningful and fun Chanukah holiday which featured the freileche musical performance by its own Sam Mitnick.
The Tribute Gala honoured Reverend Benjamin and Esther Even Hen, Danny and Lois Miller together with Jack and Pearl Rothenberg. The President called it a spectacular night and a phenomenal success.
A Shabbaton for Jewish singles 45+ held by the Chevra Singles Committee, which the committee said proved successful.
Fall 2011
As part of Project Shabbos, the synagogue welcomed Dr. Alissa Sklar, a well known local expert on teens and risky behaviour, who has conducted research and taught at both McGill University and Concordia. She spoke to the congregation about its children and the challenges of being a teen today.
A family picnic at Hampstead Park, 3:30 to 7:00 p.m.: races, an air trampoline, hot dogs, hamburgers and corn on the cob.
Sundays, 3 July to 21 August 2011
A Sunday program for the Junior Congregation, 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with lunch: art projects, a treasure hunt, baking, pottery painting and an end-of-year trip.
Lynda Fishman, author of the memoir 'Repairing Rainbows', about overcoming the loss of her mother and sister in a plane crash when she was a child, was guest speaker at the Sisterhood's closing luncheon at noon.
The congregation took to the ice at the Samuel Moskovitch Arena from 7 to 9 p.m. for a Chanukah 'Fire on Ice' evening with crafts, music, prizes and latkes.
Rabbi Asher Jacobson examined the life of the Baal Shem Tov, the founder of Chassidism, at 7:30 p.m., the first of three parts.
The congregation held Simchat Torah hakafot and a dinner at 6:15 p.m.
Rosh Hashanah 2010
The synagogue was again one of nine places where the MADA Community Centre served free Rosh Hashanah dinners, with a full-course meal, words from a rabbi, singing and dancing.
A special pre-Selichot screening of the film "Arranged" at the shul, on the Saturday night of Selichot.
A family picnic at Macdonald Park (Dupuis and Clanranald), 3:30 to 7:00 p.m.: sports, races, face painting, a baseball game, a giant air trampoline, hot dogs and corn on the cob.
The joint golf tournament of the shul and Congregation Beth Ora at the Val des Lacs golf course.
Wednesdays, 2 to 16 June 2010
A three-week series with Rabbi Asher Jacobson on the origins and meaning of the Kaddish, Wednesdays at 7:45 p.m.
A gala concert presented by the congregation: Gino Quilico in "Music for the Night", from popular songs to Broadway musicals (Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Evita), with pianist Claude Soucy, guest artists Sofia Quilico, Alexandre De Grandpre and Marie-Michele Roberge, and a special appearance by Cantor Yitzhak Epstein. Special honourees: Sally and Norman Raicek, Mona and Sol Polachek and Dr. Gerald Batist. A tribute book was published for the evening.
The youth led the Shavuot services: the Cantor, Reverend, Gabai, President and Rabbi traded seats with the next generation, followed by an ice cream party featuring the Creative Preschool. The youth report says they did the same the year before.
A Tikkun Leyl Shavuot (night of study) at 10:30 p.m. on the eve of Shavuot.
The 9th Annual Shabbat for Women by Women, held yearly on the Saturday before Mother's Day: an innovative program and divrei Torah presented by the Sisterhood, with the Synagogue Choir under choirmaster Yossi Milo, and a Kiddush luncheon sponsored by the Sisterhood.
A special Shabbat with Akiva School; the youth report says the shul would host Young Family Shabbatons in the spring for Akiva School and for the Montreal Wexner Leadership participants and families.
A 7:00 a.m. service at which Yahrzeit candles were lit in memory of the six million, with Psalms, a community Kaddish and the memorial prayer El Maleh Rachamim.
A Second Seder for the shul community with Rabbi Jacobson and Cantor Epstein: services and dinner at 6:45 p.m., with hand-baked shmurah matzah and a Passover dinner. All welcome.
29 and 30 March 2010
In conjunction with the MADA Community Centre, the shul hosted two Seders for less fortunate families, on Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 March 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
The Junior Chevra Club invited families to bake their own hand-made shmurah matzah in a model matzah bakery at the shul, with lunch and a video for children; open to all ages.
The Shabbat Hagadol drasha (lecture) in the Sanctuary at 6:30 p.m., followed by Mincha.
A Pre-Passover Shabbaton for members and their families: services at 6:00 p.m., followed by a full course dinner served by Le Ballroom.
The first fundraiser Gala Fashion Show for the Montreal Wedding Gown Gemach, which is located in the synagogue. Guests viewed wedding exhibits and booths; Rabbi Jacobson opened the evening; professional models showed the Gemach's wedding gowns; Ross Paperman was the live auctioneer. Shmuel Mendelbaum, father of Naomi Gittel after whom the Gemach is named, flew in from Israel to address the crowd.
The afternoon began with a carnival for the children, followed by Cantor Epstein's reading of the Megillah in the Sanctuary, then dinner in the Singerman Hall catered by Le Ballroom, music and dancing with a DJ, and a children's masquerade contest.
The Sisterhood and the Chesed Committee came together to prepare, pack and decorate 50 Mishloach Manot baskets, which volunteers delivered to congregants in time for Purim.
The Young Adult Division held its 2nd Annual Super Bowl Party in the Bonnie and Mitch Rosen Youth Lounge.
A Tu B'Shevat Environment Shabbat at which nine of the shul's youth took to the pulpit and spoke about the seven fruits of Tu B'Shevat, followed by a Shabbat Shira Kiddush. The choir, with the Cantor, sang at the annual Shabbat Shira service.
A Tu B'Shevat arts and crafts afternoon, listed in the shul's calendar of upcoming events at the synagogue.
Thursdays, from December 2009 through 2010
A weekly Thursday class, "Torah in Motion", at 7:30 p.m.; it runs through the calendar of The Scroll for spring and summer 2010. The same calendar lists the weekly Wednesday Parsha Class at 1:00 p.m.
A Chanukah "Fire on Ice" latke and skate, described as well attended, at the Samuel Moscovitch Arena in Cote St-Luc; the youth report calls it the shul's now annual Chanukah on Ice.
13 to 15 November 2009
Alan 'Shlomo' Veingrad, a former offensive lineman for the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys, was the guest at a weekend Shabbaton: school visits, a Shabbat dinner talk, a Saturday night farbrengen for young adults, a Sunday noon talk, 'What it Takes to be a Jewish Hero On and Off the Field', and a football clinic in Macdonald Park.
The Sisterhood's opening meeting, at noon, on the topic 'Aging and Memory', with two speakers from the McGill Centre for Studies on Aging.
The Sisterhood began its 2009/10 season with an Opening Sukkah Luncheon. Because of cold and rainy weather it was moved to the Synagogue Foyer, where about 50 women had box lunches and listened to Rabbi Jacobson, whose topic was "When Life becomes a Temporary Dwelling".
Rosh Hashanah 2009 (both nights)
The synagogue was one of ten places where the MADA kosher food bank served free Rosh Hashanah dinners, on both nights of the holiday, to low-income and isolated members of the community.
International Trade Minister Stockwell Day gave a pre-Passover talk at the synagogue. Rabbi Asher Jacobson and president Les Schiller introduced and thanked him.
2 to 12 May 2005
An unforgettable journey to Poland and Israel with Rabbi Avrohom Jacks and our own Rabbi Jacobson.
The second Seder, for our members and their families and friends.
A pre-Passover Shabbaton for our members and their families, with a full course dinner.
The Bat Mitzvah class with guest speaker Rabbi Mordechai Zeitz, on kashrut.
March 2005
A Kiddush was sponsored in honour of Reverend Even-Hen's 25th anniversary with the shul. He became Chazan Sheni in 1980.
November 2000
A cantorial concert, one of the autumn’s upcoming events.
Autumn 2000
With Rabbi Asher Jacobson: the four dimensions of Torah (simplistic, philosophical, ethical, mystical), medical experimentation on humans in Jewish law, and Kabbalistic insight into womanhood.
Fall 2000
A Tuesday evening series announced for fall 2000: Rabbi Jacobson joined by guest speakers (politicians, authors, medical experts) on contemporary Jewish topics including education, science, philosophy, law, mysticism and Kabbalah.
Summer 2000
Rabbi Jacobson began a weekly Torah class on the week's portion, Wednesdays at 1 p.m., free and open to the public; the shul's news page calls it Lunch and Learn, and it continued as the Creative Social Center's Wednesday parasha class.
Early June 2000
After a full year without a rabbi, the congregation introduced Rabbi Asher Jacobson, then 28, as its new spiritual leader; he took up his duties at the beginning of June 2000. The board reaffirmed the synagogue's Orthodox affiliation and voted to install a mechitza.
High Holy Days, September 1999
With no rabbi or cantor after Rabbi Gavriel Newman and Cantor David Harel left, the shul engaged Cantor Simon Spiro to conduct the High Holy Day services in fall 1999, joined by Rabbi Allan Nadler, the Montreal-born former rabbi of Shaar Hashomayim.
Summer 1999
The CKBJ team’s summer season in the Montreal Synagogue Softball League, from July 5, against Or Shalom, Young Israel, Adath Israel, TBDJ and others, with an all-star game.
Skits and discussion at the Creative Social Center, with Sylvia and Sol Stipelman and friends.
Fall 1996
The 40th Anniversary Gala of Congregation Chevra Kadisha-B’nai Jacob, co-chaired by Sally Raicek and Phil Siegel, with an anniversary book. “This is the continuing tradition of our shul and our families are the beneficiaries.”
1993
The Raiceks restored two Torahs, given to the shul in 1985 and 1993 in memory of their fathers, and provided covers and silver ornaments. When the 1993 restoration was complete, there was a ceremony in the shul and a parade with the Torah outside.
The Brotherhood's breakfast forum heard Lawrence Kaplan, a Jewish studies professor at McGill University and an ordained rabbi, give an update on Reform Judaism. It opened a series that was to go on to look at the Conservative and Orthodox streams.
1991
A cantorial concert held at Congregation Chevra Kadisha-B'nai Jacob in Montreal in 1991, with Cantor David Bagley accompanied by the Moscow Jewish Male Choir. About an hour and a half of it was filmed.
The singer David Broza was advertised as performing live at the synagogue at 8 p.m.; tickets were sold at Hillel House.
More than 1,100 people filled the synagogue's main hall for a rally, sponsored by the Canadian Jewish Congress, Quebec Region, pledging support for French Jews facing a wave of antisemitism and voicing concern at the rise of Nazism and fascism across Europe. Frank Schlesinger, the region's chairman, presided, and Aba Beer, a Holocaust survivor and president of the Association of Survivors of Nazi Oppression, spoke.
September 1980
Reverend Benjamin Even-Hen has served as Chazan Sheni since September 1980; he also filled the role of Cantor for a time after Cantor Joshua Rosensweig retired, until Cantor David Bagley was engaged.
A Simchat Torah rally in solidarity with Soviet Jewry was announced at the synagogue, with Shlomo Carlebach, Martin Penn (director of the Canadian Committee for Soviet Jewry), the Sabra dance troupe and Michael Rubin's orchestra. It was presented by the Student Struggle for Soviet Jewry and the Montreal Committee for Soviet Jewry.
May or June 1978
The national level of the World Bible Contest for Jewish Youth was held at the synagogue, organised by the Board of Education and Culture of the Canadian Zionist Federation. Students from Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto and Montreal competed in a junior and a senior division for the right to represent Canada at the international contest in Jerusalem in spring 1979.
October 1977
Israel’s Foreign Minister Moshe Dayan spoke at the synagogue under the auspices of the 1977 Combined Jewish Appeal. Mordecai Shalev, Israel’s ambassador to Canada, and Manny Batshaw of Allied Jewish Community Services were among those on the platform.
A public meeting of the Jewish community about the Jewish school question was held at the synagogue. It was sponsored by Allied Jewish Community Services, the Association of Jewish Day Schools, the Association for the Advancement of Jewish Education, the Canadian Jewish Congress (Eastern Region) and the Jewish Education Council of Greater Montreal.
The congregation marked Yom Ha'atzmaut with a Sunday morning talk, 'Israel at 29', by Alan Rose, executive director of the Canadian Jewish Congress.
The Canadian Zionist Federation, Eastern Region, held an Israel Independence Day festival at the synagogue. Lt. General Chaim Laskov, a former chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, was the guest speaker, and the singer Jo Amar was announced as the entertainment. More than 1,000 people came.
A gala ball marked the 20th anniversary of the congregation's amalgamation. The congregation was to receive an award of recognition and merit from Israel's leadership as the first congregation in the city to start annual events in support of Israel Bonds. The Israeli singer Jo Amar was the guest entertainer.
The Montreal Israel Bond Organization honoured the Montreal-born actor William Shatner at the synagogue. Menachem Begin, then leader of Israel's opposition, was announced as the guest speaker.
late April 1976
Montreal's community-wide Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration was held at the synagogue. The keynote speakers were Ira Hirshman, who had been the American representative on the War Refugee Board, and Sam Bloch of the World Federation of the Bergen-Belsen Survivors Association.
The Chief Rabbi of Romania, Dr. Moses Rosen, in Montreal for two days as the guest of Canadian Jewish Congress and the Mizrachi-Hapoel Hamizrachi Organization, addressed a public rally at the synagogue about Jewish life in his country.
April 1974
Yuri Suhl spoke about the Warsaw Ghetto uprising to more than 400 people at the synagogue, at a community-wide Holocaust and resistance commemoration.
A community memorial service for the late Louis Pincus, chairman of the World Zionist Organization and the Jewish Agency, was announced at the synagogue. Dr. L. Kronitz of the Canadian Zionist Federation was to give the eulogy, with Rabbi Benjamin Hauer conducting the service, assisted by Cantor Solomon Gisser; Israeli Consul General David Ephrati and Jewish National Fund president Bernard Bloomfield were also to take part.
late April or early May 1973
Norbert Wollheim, vice-president of the World Federation of the Bergen-Belsen Association, came from New York to speak at the synagogue in honour of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. The paper reported 1,500 people present.
July 1972
Rabbi Benjamin Hauer served as the congregation's spiritual leader from July 1972 to August 1993, and then as Rabbi Emeritus.
Montreal's public tribute for the 29th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto uprising was announced for the synagogue's auditorium. The historian Nora Levin of Gratz College was to speak, with David Ephrati, Israel's consul general in Montreal, taking part; Rabbi P. Hirschprung and Cantor Samuel B. Taube were to conduct the service.
March 1972
Sister Noelle, head of the Mi-ca-el Centre of the Sisters of Zion in Montreal, addressed the annual meeting of the Sisterhood. Her order works on relations between Catholics and Jews.
General Ezer Weizman of Israel spoke to university youth at a special rally at the synagogue. The paper reported a capacity audience.
A demonstration sponsored by Canadian Jewish Congress to protest the Leningrad trials of Soviet Jews was called for 8 p.m. at the synagogue.
The congregation's president, Morris I. Moscovitch, announced a dinner dance honouring the State of Israel, held with the Montreal Israel Bond Organization in the main auditorium of the synagogue. Larry Best, mimic and storyteller, was to entertain.
Mizrachi held a reception in the synagogue auditorium for two rabbis newly arrived in Montreal: Rabbi Marvin Pachino of Chevra Kadisha-B'nai Jacob and Rabbi Michael Kramer of Adath Israel. The two guests of honour were to present on the theme "Israel and the Synagogue", followed by a general discussion.
The Sisterhood announced a Succoth tea, with folk singer, writer and lecturer Miriam Ben Ezra Denburg entertaining.
about 13 September 1967
The Sisterhood held a paid-up supper party, followed by a fur fashion show.
about 8 March 1967
The Sisterhood held a general meeting with a panel quiz. The moderator was Mrs. Fanny Reich, director of the Women's Division of Montreal Israel Bonds.
The Quebec Region of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America held the second of its breakfast forums at the shul, hosted by the congregation's Men's Association. Harold Jacobs spoke on "Halacha and Business Ethics", with Dr. Melvyn Schwartzben presiding.
early February 1967
At a general meeting of the Sisterhood in the community hall, Dora Wasserman performed as folk singer, guitarist and monologist. Mrs. Chaim Lewin was program chairman.
The synagogue gave an Israel Bond dinner in honour of Hyman Singerman, a member of its executive. The Rt. Hon. John G. Diefenbaker, Leader of the Opposition, was the guest speaker, and Cantor Moshe Koussevitzky gave a program. Leon Teitelbaum chaired the dinner and the synagogue's Israel Bond committee.
spring 1964
Jewish men and women gathered at the synagogue to pray for the welfare of the Jews in the Soviet Union. The gathering answered a call of the All-Canadian Rabbinic Conference held in Ottawa in January, sponsored by the national religious welfare committee of the Canadian Jewish Congress.
March 1964
The Sisterhood and Brotherhood together held a spring carnival with a showing of women's fashions. Mrs. Seymour Frank was Sisterhood president and Mac Weiner headed the Brotherhood.
The Sisterhood held its annual donor luncheon. Mrs. J. Takefman was the convener.
June or July 1962
The congregation's Hebrew School, directed by Rabbi Gene Klein, held its first closing exercises in the Community Hall. Pupils gave a presentation called "Stand And Be Counted", the school choir sang, and Rabbi David Roth brought greetings from the congregation.
The congregation's School of Adult Jewish Studies, led by Rabbi Roth, was to begin its season.
The congregation, together with Israel Bonds, announced a dinner in honour of William B. Cohen.
The Youth Department, led by Jack Boeko, organised a day trip to Granby Zoo for children and adults, leaving from the synagogue in the morning and returning in the evening.
late March 1961
A model Seder was held for the children of the congregation before Passover, run by the Sisterhood, the Youth Department and the Brotherhood with the youth director Jack Boeko and Rabbi Roth.
The Sisterhood's annual donor luncheon was to present a musical comedy, 'Here Comes the Bride'. Mrs. B. Moroz was the luncheon convener.
A Sabbath service of traditional and modern synagogue compositions was held for Jewish Music Month. Cantor Joshua Rosenzweig officiated, assisted by Louis Burko and the choir, and a kiddush followed.
The shul's Scouts, Guides, Cubs and Brownies were to attend services in full uniform for Scout Sabbath, marking the founding of the Boy Scout movement.
At the Brotherhood's Breakfast Forum, Louis M. Benjamin spoke on Isaac Loeb Peretz, part of the series 'Jewish Life Through Jewish Literature'.
The Brotherhood invited members and friends to an open general meeting. The guest speaker was Harold Freeman, Q.C., on the question 'Should the Zionist Organization Be Liquidated?'.
The congregation's annual Chanukah dinner dance, sponsored by the Sisterhood and the Brotherhood, was held in the Community Hall. S. L. Crystal was chairman.
The Sisterhood held an art exhibit and auction at the synagogue over several days in mid-December.
The Sisterhood held its paid-up membership luncheonette and fashion show in the Community Hall. Mesdames J. Rabinovitch and C. Sigman were the co-conveners.
The Brotherhood's breakfast meeting began a lecture series, "Jewish Life Through Jewish Literature". David Rome, director of the Jewish Public Library, spoke on "Sholom Aleichem, the Poet Laureate of Traditional Jewry", with Brotherhood president Saul M. Davis as chairman.
The Sisterhood opened its season in the Community Hall with a "What's My Name" programme, moderated by Roberta of radio station CJAD. Mrs. Morris I. Moscovitch, the president, presided.
Rabbi David Roth installed the Sisterhood's new officers at its closing meeting, and Cantor Joshua Rosenzweig sang, accompanied by Louis Burko. The Sisterhood's president, Mrs. Morris I. Moscovitch, presented the congregation's president, Frank Cobrin, with the funds the Sisterhood had raised during the season.
The Brotherhood's fund-raising subscription dinner had Gord Sinclair, of radio and television, as master of ceremonies. Samuel Moscovitch and Hyman Singerman were the chairmen.
The congregation marked the 12th anniversary of the State of Israel with an Israel Bond dinner, with the Hon. Roland Michener of Toronto, Speaker of the House, as guest. The dinner also welcomed home the congregation's president, Frank Cobrin, who had returned from Israel. William B. Cohen and Nathan Takefman were honorary chairmen; Simon Cobrin, Max Liverman and Hyman Singerman were chairmen.
The Sisterhood held its annual donor luncheon, with a draw for a diamond as the grand prize, a showing by the Holt Renfrew company and a door prize.
The annual Purim carnival had a Purim play, games, prizes and refreshments, with youth director Jack Boeko in charge. The Megillah was read the evening before by Reverend A. H. Greenberg, with children over seven invited and Purim refreshments served.
Louis Freedman, Q.C., was the guest speaker at the Brotherhood breakfast forum, on "The Jew in Law". John Mishkin, the Brotherhood's president, was chairman.
The Brotherhood's annual father-son-daughter luncheon offered movies, a magician, a "Mr. America" and sports stars from the Canadiens hockey club and the Alouettes football club. Edward Greenspoon and Herschel Takefman were the chairmen.
A dance for the synagogue's teen-agers was held, with Jack Boeko, the youth director, in charge.
Cantor Nathan Mendelson of Shaar Hashomayim Synagogue was announced as guest speaker at the Brotherhood breakfast forum.
The Brotherhood sponsored a "civic night" to mark 200 years of Jewish settlement in Canada. The guest speaker was Harold Lande, Q.C., chairman of the Eastern Region of the Canadian Jewish Congress, and Mayor Sarto Fournier was to present certificates to all the Jewish members of the City Council.
J. R. Griffiths, Chief of the Outremont Police and Fire Department, was the guest speaker at the Brotherhood's breakfast meeting.
David Rome, executive director of the Jewish Public Library, was the guest speaker at a Brotherhood breakfast meeting, on "The Jew in Literature". John Mishkin, president of the Brotherhood, presided, and services in the chapel came first.
Dr. Abraham Stilman was the guest speaker at the Breakfast Forum sponsored by the Brotherhood, with Brotherhood president John Mishkin presiding.
The Sisterhood held an art auction and sherry party, with paintings by Canadian and European artists shown beforehand in the community hall. Mrs. Irwin G. Presner was the convener.
A Holy Day institute was held in the chapel on the Saturday night before Rosh Hashanah: Rabbi Roth spoke, the congregation sang selections from the Rosh Hashanah liturgy, and a social hour followed. Selichot services began at midnight.
The Sisterhood opened its season with a dessert luncheon and a symposium on Jewish humour given by four rabbis. Mrs. David Roth was the moderator and Sisterhood president Mrs. Morris I. Moscovitch took the chair.
The congregation held an Israel Bond dinner marking the anniversary of the State of Israel. Rabbi Isaac Swift of New York was the guest speaker, and all those attending bought State of Israel bonds.
The Brotherhood's closing breakfast of the season featured a Passover institute conducted by Rabbi David Roth.
At its annual donor luncheon the Sisterhood staged a musical comedy called "Les Vybers", produced and directed by Mrs. A. Ostroff with a cast of Sisterhood members and Mrs. B. Schlenger as business manager. Sisterhood president Mrs. Morris I. Moscovitch and convener Mrs. Louis Landsman spoke, and Rabbi Roth gave the invocation.
A Chanukah party for the boys and girls of the congregation was announced, with movies, the lighting of the Chanukah lights, singing, prizes, souvenirs and refreshments. The conveners were Mrs. I. Cransky and Mrs. L. Richler.
The Sisterhood's December meeting had Fred Kaufman as guest speaker on the legal position of women in the Province of Quebec. Mrs. Esther Roth lit the Chanukah candles and the choral group sang Chanukah songs.
The Brotherhood held a breakfast meeting after morning services with Rabbi David Roth as guest speaker. Registration for the congregation's Adult Jewish Studies courses was announced at the same time.
1956
Community leaders at the sod-turning of the Chevra Kadisha - B’nai Jacob Synagogue on Clanranald included Rabbi David Roth, Joseph Brenner, Hyman Grover, Abraham Gordon, Maurice Pollack, Harry Bronfman, William B. Cohen, Sam Marks, Harry Cohen and Frank Cobrin.
We’d love to hear it.