2015 Welcome Package

W E LCO M E TO
SHAAREI SHOMAYIM
2 01 5/57 76 SY N AG O G U E G U I D E
WELCOME GUIDE
2015 / 5776
Table of Contents
WHO WE ARE
5
BUILDING A COMMUNITY
7
OUR CLERGY
9
OUR SERVICES (MINYANIM)
19
ADULT EDUCATION AND PROGRAMMING
22
YOUTH PROGRAMS
31
SIMCHAS / CELEBRATION
36
A HELPING HAND
38
GENERAL INFORMATION
40
FLOOR PLANS
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WHO WE ARE
SHAAREI SHOMAYIM: WHERE COMMUNITY MATTERS
Our synagogue is a home. It is the place where we come together
during the course of a year to share the highs and lows, for smachot
and for tragedies. The people we sit next to in shul are our family.
We embrace a distinct, Modern Orthodox ideology. Our shul is
where we engage the world. The Torah is strengthened by this
interaction – and we affect the word by bringing Torah values into
our modern lives.
Our community is where we fight for what is right, where we
realize our lives as Jews, and where with God’s help we achieve
things which we could not have done alone.
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BUILDING A COMMUNITY
SHAAREI SHOMAYIM:
WHERE VISION MATTERS
Our extensive renovations were completed in the Spring of 2015, when we
celebrated with a beautiful Chanukat HaBayit celebration. We built a beautifully
refurbished Sanctuary, an expanded, more functional lobby, acoustical
improvements, new main level washrooms, expanded sanctuary seating,
Gottdenker Remembrance Gallery, front canopy and new doors and windows.
We have ensured that our building is now as accessible as possible, including
proper ramping, areas for wheelchair seating and a fully accessible lower bimah.
Our beautiful new space is available for events and celebrations and is supported
by our world-class caterer, Menchens Catering.
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RABBI CHAIM STRAUCHLER
Rabbi Chaim Strauchler loves being a rabbi. When asked about his work, he replies, “I wake up every morning
and do mitzvoth – good deeds.” As a rabbi, he is fortunate to help people during their most joyous and
also most challenging times. He particularly loves the opportunity to teach Torah. Rabbi Strauchler has
been blessed with superb lay leadership and has partnered with them to create a meaningful and exciting
synagogue environment.
Rabbi Strauchler believes in synagogue life. “A great
synagogue like Shaarei Shomayim is a multiplier. It
is the place where we go to make a difference, to
make our Jewish lives matter. We come together
here to do things that we cannot do alone. We
educate the next generation in our values and enjoy
the seasons of Jewish life together. We support the
State of Israel and work on behalf of the beautiful
Canadian society in which we are so blessed to live.
A shul is a place where we do things together that
truly matter.”
The warm, knowledgeable and skilled
clergy and staff of Shaarei Shomayim invite
you to join us, get in touch with a question,
and get involved. Please be sure to say
hello after the service!
Since Rabbi Strauchler’s arrival at Shaarei Shomayim in 2008, the shul has witnessed dramatic growth. In
the past two years, the shul has welcomed over 60 new families. In May 2015, the synagogue completed a
momentous renovation and fundraising campaign – the largest in the synagogue’s history. The success of
this effort reflects the vibrancy of Shaarei Shomayim and the continued importance of Modern Orthodoxy
in Toronto.
While committed to Modern Orthodoxy, Rabbi Strauchler stresses the importance of being able to see past
labels, towards the right and the left of the religious spectrum. He tries to look at a person for who they are,
and not at the external appearance.
Rabbi Chaim Strauchler received his ordination from Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary of Yeshiva
University. Rabbi Strauchler earned a diploma in theology and a master’s in religious studies from Oxford
University as a Rhodes Scholar. He also holds a master’s degree in Biblical studies from Bernard Revel
Graduate School, and is a Wexner Graduate Fellowship alumnus. As a student, Rabbi Strauchler founded
the literary journal, Mima’amakim. Before joining Shaarei Shomayim, Rabbi Strauchler served as rabbi at Beit
Chaverim Synagogue in Westport, Connecticut. Rabbi Strauchler is currently a member of the executive of
the Rabbinical Council of America and the Rabbinical Vaad HaKashruth of COR.
Rabbi Strauchler is married to Avital. They have five children: Tehilla, Adir, Atara, Zvi and Freda.
416.789.3213 ext 201 | RabbiStrauchler@shomayim.org
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RABBI NOAH CHESES
ASSISTANT RABBI
A native of Boston, Rabbi Noah Cheses received his ordination from Rabbi Isaac Elchanan
Theological Seminary of Yeshiva University in 2011. Before joining Shaarei Shomayim, Rabbi
Cheses served as an associate Rabbi at the Yale University Hillel where he also was the CoDirector of JLIC, the Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus. At Yale, Rabbi Cheses built a
“home away from home” for hundreds of Jewish students through his warm personality and
love of teaching Torah. During the summers, he has been the Rabbi of the High School Tikvah
Summer Seminar on Jewish Theology, Economics and Politics.
Rabbi Cheses’ vision of Jewish community is one in which every member has a strong sense
of belonging to something larger than themselves. He hopes to advance the values of Modern
Orthodoxy by inspiring people through powerful and relevant Torah.
Rabbi Cheses has done graduate work in Family Therapy has completed a graduate degree in
Religious Studies and Theology from Yale University. During his studies at Yeshiva University,
he was a Norman Lamm Fellow in Jewish Thought and a Wexner Graduate Fellow.
In high school, Rabbi Cheses was on the Grounds Crew at Fenway Park where he spent his
summers mowing the field for the Boston Red Sox. He is an avid runner who ran on the
cross country team in college and who has competed in the Boston, Miami, and Jerusalem
marathons.
He is married to Sarah Cheses and is the proud father of Adina, Natan and Orly.
416.789.3213 ext 204 | RabbiCheses@shomayim.org
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RABBI Elliott Diamond
RABBI of downstiars minyan
Rabbi Elliott Diamond has long been associated with Jewish education in Toronto and
currently serves as the Head of Jewish Studies at Netivot HaTorah Day School. Rabbi
Diamond has been an important member of the Shaarei Shomayim community for many
years and has contributed to the synagogue in many capacities. Currently, he is the leader
of our Downstairs Minyan and a member of the synagogue clergy.
Rabbi Diamond holds a BA from the University of Toronto, pursued his Masters in Education
from the Ontario Institute of Studies in Education and received his rabbinical ordination
from the late Chief Rabbi of Montreal, Rabbi Pinchas Hirzprungz”l.
The Downstairs Minyan at Shaarei Shomayim offers intimate Shabbat and holiday
services led by participants. Rabbi Diamond’s weekly D’var Torah is a thoughtful and
meaningful part of the service. “Everyone deserves a moment of inspiration,” says
Rabbi Diamond. “At the Downstairs Minyan, we try to make that moment happen in
our warm and friendly atmosphere.”
Rabbi Diamond and his wife Rochelle have three children, Avi, Eliana and Amiel, and six
grandchildren.
elliotdiamond@hotmail.com
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CHAZZAN ZVI KATZMAN
CHAZZAN
Zvi Katzman and his wife Yael have five
beautiful children.
At a young age, Zvi began studying
classical Ashkenaz Vilna nussach with his
Zaidy, Yisrael Stercz, who was a prize pupil
of Moshe Koussevitzy.
Zvi led the Forest Hill Jewish Centre
congregation in High Holiday Services for
10 years, and in 2014 Zvi was the Chazzan
at the Mountainview Pesach Experience in
Collingwood.
Zvi and Yael spent 2 years abroad, one
in Yerushalayim, where Zvi studied at
Yeshivat Ohr Somayach. While there, Zvi
led the Ohr Somayach Jewish Learning
Experience trips several times a year. The
other year was spent in Coral Gables,
Miami. Zvi and Yael served as the campus
outreach family at the University of Miami.
Today, Zvi takes pleasure in leading the congregation of Shaarei Shomayim as the Chazzan.
Zvi enjoys bringing new modern tunes together with the classical nussach of the past to
create an inspiring and meaningful davening.
zzkatzman@gmail.com
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Ralph Levine
shamash / ba’al koreh
Ralph Levine, Shaarei Shomayim’s
Shamash and Baal Koreh is responsible
for the Torah readings at our services
and for overseeing daily morning
services. Ralph is a resource to those
who are sitting shiva and can assist with
the recitation of kaddish.
He offers training to boys in advance of
their Bar Mitzvah and can provide tutorials
to adults who wish to improve their
davening or haftarah reading skills.
ralphlevine@rogers.com
gabbaim
The minyanim at Shaarei Shomayim are supported through the diligent efforts of our gabbaim,
Irving Benmergui in the main m inyan, and Jay Stochinsky and Hyim Bessin in the Hashkama
and Downstairs Minyanim.
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AVITAL STRAUCHLER
While the role of a rebbetzin is not a formal position in our shul,
Avital Strauchler develops and directs many programs as well as
fills an important role as a communal educator. She is responsible
for Shaarei Shomayim’s successful Bat Mitzvah program, the
development of young family programming and for teaching Torah
classes throughout the year.
She provides one-on-one lessons to many of our young women as
part of their bat mitzvah studies as well as to brides in advance of
their weddings. Avital also plays an important role in supporting
our members in times of need.
A native of Edison, NJ, Avital attended the Yeshiva of Flatbush and
studied at Midreshet Lindenbaum in Jerusalem. She received a BA with Honours from Stern College
in Biology and earned a doctorate in Physical Therapy from Columbia University. Prior to moving to
Toronto, she worked as a pediatric physical therapist. She has spent many of her summers studying
Torah in programs in NY and in Israel. Avital is married to Rabbi Chaim Strauchler. They have five
children: Tehilla, Adir, Atara, Zvi, and Freda. Avital can be reached at avital330@hotmail.com and
647-740-0697.
SARAH CHESES
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Sarah Cheses is excited to have
joined the Toronto community, where she is teaching Judaic
Studies at Ulpanat Orot High School. For the past three years, she
served as the Co-Director of the Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on
Campus (JLIC) at Yale, and is continuing this work as a part time
JLIC educator for university students in Toronto. She is a graduate
of the Keren Ariel Yoatzot Halacha Program at Nishmat. As a
Yoetzet, she is trained to serve as an adviser in women’s health
and halacha. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from
Columbia University and a BA in Biology with Honors from Yeshiva
University’s Stern College for Women. Sarah would be happy
to serve as a resource for women in the community and can be
reached at sarahcheses@gmail.com or 647-907-9298.
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dr. elliott malaet
pray and learn
Dr. Elliott Malamet is the co-founder and program director
of Torah in Motion, whose mission is to explore the interface
between Judaism and modernity. He made aliyah in 2013
with his family and lives in Jerusalem. Dr. Malamet currently
teaches Jewish Philosophy at Yeshivat Machanaim in Efrat
and lectures in English Literature at the Rothberg International
School of Hebrew University.
Dr. Malamet has run seminars on teaching Judaism to young
people in the United States, Canada, England and Israel. Dr.
Malamet is currently working on a book which examines ethics
as they relate to teenagers.
For the High Holidays and selected weeks throughout the year, Dr. Malamet will lead “Pray
and Learn” at Shaarei Shomayim. For this season’s dates, please see page
chayim rubin
HOLIDAY BAAL TEFILLAH
Chayim Rubin was born in Ottawa where his late father
Avraham was the Rabbi of Machzikei Hadas. His family soon
moved to Montreal where he performed for many years as a
child soloist for the High Holidays at the Zichron Kedoshim
Synagogue accompanying Chazzan Pinchas Rabinovitch. Not
long after marrying his wife Tovit Stern, Chayim accepted
the post of Chazzan for the High Holidays in Wilkesbarre,
Pennsylvania continuing there for ten years. He then returned
to Toronto and accepted a position in Shaarei Shomayim as
the Chazzan Sheini, which he has performed for the past nine
years. He is also the leader of The Zemer Orchestra where he
has been performing and bringing joy to hundreds of families
since 1990. Chayim and Tovit are blessed with six beautiful
children and four gorgeous grandchildren, K’nein Hora!
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OUR SERVICES (MINYANIM)
SHAAREI SHOMAYIM: WHERE SPIRITUALITY MATTERS
Shaarei Shomayim offers many different opportunities to come together and pray. Each
service (minyan) has its own approach and atmosphere. Please join any (or all) of the
different minyanim offered during the holidays, Shabbat or during the week. Feel free to
join any minyan at any time as there are no assigned seats.
MAIN MINYAN:
Clergy: Rabbi Chaim Strauchler, Rabbi Noah Cheses, Chazzan Zvi Katzman
Shaarei Shomayim stands among the great synagogues of Jewish history. Our Main Minyan
in the main sanctuary reflects the grandeur of the Temple, with its soaring ceiling and
modern architecture. The tall windows bring warm light to this airy space. Our sanctuary is
filled with the wonderful sounds of prayer led by our classically trained Chazzan.
For eighty years our synagogue has shown that a Jew can be fully committed to halacha
(the laws of the Torah) and yet proudly North American in lifestyle and outlook. Everyone
is welcome.
Location: Max and Lil Sharp Sanctuary (main floor).
DOWNSTAIRS MINYAN:
Clergy: Rabbi Elliott Diamond, lay baalei tefilah (prayer leaders), Chayim Rubin on Holidays
Over 30 years ago, the Downstairs Minyan began as a special teenage service that gave
students an opportunity to learn how to lead the services and read the Torah and Haftarah.
Over time, the teens turned into adults and never left! Today, they come with their own
children to this minyan that has developed into a service attractive to all ages. The services
are conducted by members, and the atmosphere is one of warmth, informality and
participation. Everyone is welcome.
On the Yamim Noraim, the minyan recognizes the seriousness and purpose of these days.
Meaningful participation is the goal, and participants are asked to be particularly mindful
of this objective. The davening slows down to give all an opportunity to follow, and more
singing is introduced.
Location: Sisterhood Hall (lower level).
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OUR SERVICES (MINYANIM)
SHAAREI SHOMAYIM: WHERE SPIRITUALITY MATTERS
HASHKAMA MINYAN:
Self-led by participants
The Hashkama Minyan is a less formal minyan with an early start time of 7:30 am. Participants
enjoy a quiet ambiance and the camaraderie of its devoted following. Rabbi Strauchler
gives a short D’var Torah at this minyan.
Location: Weinbaum Beit Midrash (lower level).
PRAY AND LEARN:
Led by: Dr. Elliott Malamet
The philosophy of the Open Service is that no Jewish question is undeserving of a thoughtful
and honest answer. Join Dr. Malamet in this friendly and relevant service. Participants will
discuss and learn about the meaning and richness of the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
service; about methods for more powerful prayer; about core spiritual values that can
transform our lives and those of our families, and how Judaism can be a source of light and
inner wellbeing. Please bring your questions and your insights. The services are a shared
quest for meaning. The invitation to absolutely everyone is very simple: WELCOME.
Location: Weinbaum Beit Midrash (lower level) at 11:00am.
DAILY MINYAN:
We invite you to join us for minyan throughout the week.
We have two regular morning (Shacharit) services on weekdays (Mondays and Thursdays
– 6:55am and 7:45 am; and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays – 7:00am and 7:45am) and
one Shacharit service on Sundays (8:30am). We have one Mincha and Maariv service which
begins approximately fifteen minutes before sunset. Fast days, Rosh Chodesh, holidays, and
Selichot may affect minyan times. For evening services, the community comes together for
intimate tefillah in one minyan in the Weinbaum Beit Midrash .
Location: Weinbaum Beit Midrash. Various times.
Please go to our calendar at shomayim.org to check on daily minyan times.
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OUR SERVICES (MINYANIM)
SHAAREI SHOMAYIM: WHERE SPIRITUALITY MATTERS
SHABBAT MINYANIM:
Hashkama: 7:30am (Weinbaum Beit Midrash)
Main Minyan: 9:00am (Max & Lil Sharp Sanctuary)
Downstairs Minyan: 9:00am (Sisterhood Hall)
Teen Minyan: 10:00am (Weinbaum Beit Midrash)
BUILDING SPIRITUALLY
AT SHAAREI SHOMAYIM
As part of our renovations last year, we piloted a program to
focus not just on how we build physically but also how we build
spiritually. We plan to continue this effort in the coming year.
On three Shabbat mornings this winter, davening will conclude at 11:00am. We will break
into groups for 45 minute classes led by our clergy. These classes will create learning
environments that are participatory and open to the discussion of how we build spiritually.
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PROGRAMMING: FALL 2015
SHAAREI SHOMAYIM: WHERE torah MATTERS
Shaarei Shomayim offers many opportunities for meaningful learning experiences. All are
welcome. Our adult education committee presents regular classes and lecture series, we
host a wide array of special events and dinners throughout the year, and the scholar-inresidence weekends are unique opportunities to learn from distinguished and prominent
experts. There are daily and weekly classes and shiurim on a variety of topics; we offer
occasional “Lunch-N-Learns”, small group chaburas, and Saturday night learning programs.
Our community is enhanced by meaningful programming targeted to members of all ages.
CURRENT WEEKLY LEARNING PROGRAMS:
Daily Gemara Shiur taught by Rabbi Chaim Strauchler – Tractate Pesachim
Sundays: 7:30am;
Mondays and Thursdays: 6:10am;
Tuesdays, Wednesdays (taught by Rabbi Cheses) and Fridays: 6:15am
Tanach: Divrei HaYamim taught by Rabbi Chaim Strauchler
Mondays: 9:30am
Tuesdays: 8:00pm
Chumash-Rashi Shiur taught by Melech Halberstat
Shabbat mornings: 8:15am
Bible Study Class – “The Birth of Moral Selfhood” taught by Dr. Shoshana Zolty
Tuesdays: 9:30am
Wednesdays: 10:00am
The Book of Job (Iyov) taught by Rabbi Mordechai Torczyner
Tuesdays: 1:30pm
YU Torah MiTzion Beit Midrash Zichron Dov Beit Midrash
Mondays: 7:30pm
Please check the calendar at www.shomayim.org to see all the great programming
happening at Shaarei Shomayim.
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SHAAREI SHOMAYIM YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
Shaarei Shomayim Young Professionals seek to create a
meaningful and dynamic community for Modern Orthodox Jews
in their 20s and 30s in the mid-town Toronto area. This includes
educational programming such as the popular “Living Room Learning Series,” which
features lectures on contemporary issues, as well as social events such as beer tasting in
the sukkah, Simchat Torah Hakafot, and communal Shabbat lunches.
silber family lecture series
The Silber Family Lecture Series brings the best and most insightful speakers to our
community. This program embodies Shaarei Shomayim’s leading role as the place where
topical, impactful Jewish ideas and issues are discussed and debated with top scholars.
Our vision is to create a community culture of honest engagement with the world in which
we live giving us the knowledge to make it a better place for all. The Silber Family Lecture
Series is generously sponsored by Allan and Hinda Silber.
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pray and learn shabbatot
with Dr. elliott malamet
Dr. Elliott Malamet joins us on select Shabbatot throughout the year. This year we will
welcome Dr. Malamet on October 31, November 21 and January 23.
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WALERSTEIN SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE
The Walerstein Scholar Program allows the Shaarei Shomayim community to engage
in ongoing learning with a renowned academic during the course of an entire year. The
Walerstein Scholar will address our community at least five times over the course of the
year on Shabbat and holidays, as well as establishing informal learning relationships within
our community.
James diamond
October 3
Professor James Diamond is the Joseph & Wolf
Lebovic Chair – Jewish Studies at the University of
Waterloo. He has published extensively on many
topics of Jewish Studies. Professor Diamond has
an LLM in International Legal Studies from New
York University and a PhD in Medieval Jewish
Thought from University of Toronto. He is the
author of numerous articles and studies on
Maimonides’ thought and exegisis, his latest book,
Maimonides and the Shaping of the Jewish Canon,
was published in 2014.
Sponsored by David and Bernice Walerstein
in memory of David’s parents, Max and Sally
Walersteinz”l.
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Michael Hattin
shuli taubes
November 6 - 7
December 4 – 5
Rabbi Michael Hattin teaches Bible and Halacha
at Pardes in Jerusalem. He holds a professional
degree in Architecture from the University
of Toronto and rabbinic ordination from the
Chief Rabbinate of Israel. Rabbi Hattin recently
published two books, Passages: Text and
Transformation in the Parsha, and Joshua: The
Challenge of the Promised Land.
Shuli Taubes is the Sopher Community Scholar
at Young Israel Ohab Zedek in North Riverdale.
She holds a Masters in Divinity from the Harvard
Divinity School, with a focus on Scripture and
Interpretation. She serves as a faculty member at
SAR High School in Riverdale, New York, where
she teaches Tanach, Jewish Identity, and chairs
the Jewish Philosophy department.
Sponsored by Mark Nusbaum L’ Zeicher Nishmat
Ishti-Frumit Bat Yosseif (Yuda) Nusbaum.
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SHAAREI SHOMAYIM THEATRE SERIES
November 14, 2015 at 8:00pm
Aspaklaria “Dead End”
Jake, a successful New York lawyer, finds himself in a NYC park at midnight searching for
his daughter, Sara, who ran away from home after an argument with her parents. While at
the park he meets Aaron, a troubled teen from a religious family, who is hanging out with
friends. While each one sees the other as a nuisance, gradually Jake realizes that Aaron can
help him understand his daughter, and Aaron finds someone he can open up to, because
he is a stranger.
December 5, 2015 at 8:00pm
HOW – Harmony Over War: “A Simple Twist of Faith”
In 1917, a Jewish American soldier in Germany enters a synagogue seeking
solace from the terrors of war. After initial mistreatment, he is touched by
an act of kindness from a German congregant. The moment sets off a ripple
effect and changes the course of both of their lives.
Harmony Over War (HOW) is an innovative social initiative which combines student activism with
live music, media, poetry, visual and performance art as well as other forms of creative expression
in a global campaign to promote planet peace in the historical context of world war. How is
a collaborative movement for global peace and has a mission to make history relevant today.
They strive to heal the world through creativity and non-violence.
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shaarei shomayim
WHERE health MATTERS
Shaarei Shomayim is pleased to offer several opportunities to maintain and improve your
health. Consider joining one of the following classes. Please call the office for more details.
ONGOING TRAINING
•Bicycle for Your Life with Rabbi Chaim Strauchler
•Chai Lifeline Half Marathon with Rabbi Noah Cheses
EXERCISE
•Frumba with Bette Barmherzig – Sunday mornings at 10:30am (check our calendar for
specific dates)
• Pilates with Arielle Farber
• Senior’s Low-Impact Exercise Circle – Monday and Wednesday: 2:45pm
LECTURES
•Medical Halacha with Rabbi Mordechai Torczyner – November 2, 2015 at 8:00pm
• Lara Bloom Speaks: Ehlers-Danlos Lecture – November 8, 2015
• Nishmat Health and Halacha Day for Women – November 15, 2015
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shaarei shomayim
WHERE making a difference matters
Shaarei Shomayim proudly supports and / or takes part in the following:
•North York Food Pantry – on April 28, 2015, volunteers from Shaarei Shomayim gave
their time to the North York Food Pantry, sorting over 5,228 pounds of food, which
aided in the support of thousands of families who access the food bank. This is a yearly
volunteer effort.
• Impact India Program with Rabbi Cheses - In May of 2015, Shaarei Shomayim sent 20
Young Jews from our community on a 12 day service learning trip to India with Rabbi
Noah Cheses. The goal of the mission was to learn about the rich history of the Bnei
Israel Jews and to impact 40 underprivileged children from the Colaba slums through
an enrichment camp. The energetic learning sessions and dynamic volunteering
experiences had a transformative impact upon all the participants. A photo exhibit of
the trip is being displayed in the lower level hallway. Plans are in motion for a similar trip
in May of 2016.
•Weekly Charity with Rabbi Strauchler
•Peace of Mind - helping Israeli soldiers who have served three or more years in high-risk
combat units pave the way back to civilian life.
•Shaarei Shomayim will be sponsoring a Syrian refugee family in the coming year.
•Camp AIM – a local Jewish camp exclusively serving children with special needs, joins
our Youth Programs and community during special Shabbatot throughout the year.
•Shabbat Itanu – UJA Federations Inclusion Initiative, which aims to promote full
participation in all areas of Jewish life for people with disabilities and their families.
Shabbat Itanu strives to be a fully inclusive Shabbat experience.
• Holocaust Education Week: Through its museum and programs, the Sarah and Chaim
Neuberger Holocaust Education Centre generates knowledge
and understanding about the Holocaust and serves as a forum for
dialogue about civil society for present and future generations.
This year, we will host the following programs:
October 31: Rabbi Nechamia Polin: Out of the Holy Fire: The Rebbe of the Warsaw
Ghetto and the Post-War Rebirth of his Work – in conversation with Dr. Elliott Malamet
November 9: Closing Evening program featuring Dr. Marc Grellert: Synagogues in
Germany: A Virtual Reconstruction
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shaarei shomayim
sisterhood and brotherhood
Under the leadership of Katy Korman and Rob Klein respectively, the Shaarei Shomayim
Sisterhood and Brotherhood have been rejuvenated. We can look forward to several
interesting and varied programming, including:
SISTERHOOD
•Pizza in the Hut – September 30 at 7:00pm
• Sara Chana Radcliffe – November 16 at 7:30pm
• Aspaklaria “Dead End” Theatrical Performance – November 14 at 8:00pm
• HOW – Harmony Over War: “A Simple Twist of Faith” – December 5 at 8:00pm
• Bubbie and Me – scheduled for January 2016
BROTHERHOOD
•Bills Game / Tailgating party
• Afternoon at the Rink
• Summer Family BBQ
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JACOB POSLUNS
YOUTH DIRECTOR
Jacob Posluns is our Youth Director. He is
a Ryerson Student studying for a BComm
in Business Technology. After returning
from yeshiva two years ago, he realized
the importance of childhood education
and how necessary it is to be a part of a
congregation in order to help facilitate
the important values that parents work so
hard to teach their children. He has been
working with children for the past seven
years at various camps and in different
youth oriented volunteer groups including
Bnei Akiva, Afikim in Israel, The Chai Lifeline
big brother program, as well as working in
the youth program at Shaarei Shomayim
for the past five years. He is very excited
to take on this important role in the shul,
and is looking forward to another amazing
year.
Jacob is joined by a very talented and
enthusiastic team: Noa Borden, Assistant
Youth Director, Debra Posluns, Head of
Preschool Program, Noa Voss and Yoni Hadar our Israeli ‘Shinshinim’, and of course our
devoted team of Youth Leaders. The entire team works together under the guidance of Rabbi
Strauchler, Rabbi Cheses and the Youth Committee to create a positive experience for the
children. Our Youth Leadership team really enjoys seeing the smiling faces of our youth as
they learn a new game, win a prize, master a mitzvah, or make a new friend while learning
about the weekly pasha or davening together during ‘tfilla time’ with us!
youth@shomayim.com
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youth programs
shaarei shomayim: where kids matter
Got Kids? Shaarei Shomayim has programs!
Every Shabbat and Yom Tov we offer four separate services / programs for kids aged two
to twelve, as well as a teen service. Each program is unique and includes a great mix of
davening, fun activities, and yummy treats.
SPECIAL ACTIVITIES
Shaarei Shomayim’s Youth programs from past years included special Shabbatot with Camp
AIM, great holiday programming (Big-Kids Purim Carnival and Little-Kids Carnival, Shavuot
Ice Cream Party and Puppet Show, Chanukah Party with Gift Wrapping Toy Drive, Sukkah
Hop, and Simchat Torah Acrobats), Parent-Child Learning and after-school programming.
We have regular young leadership (young families, young couples, singles) Shabbat meals
with kids’ programming, and Friday night kinderminyan (a kid-friendly service for families
with small children) led by Rabbi Strauchler in the winter months.
WEEKLY SHABBAT & HOLIDAY PROGRAMS
All youth programming takes place in our youth wing on the west side of our building’s
lower level. Room assignments will be posted at the entry to the youth wing. We partner
with Jewnior Games to bring a comprehensive and fun Shabbat and holiday program this
year.
MOMMY & TOT: (Rosh Hashanah only) Ages: 0–2
This room is reserved for parents with infants and toddlers who wish to have a quiet place
to spend with their baby.
Note: a private nursing mothers’ room is accessible off the east corridor, adjacent to the
Youth Lounge. Please see a shul volunteer or staff for the access code.
SHAAR HACHADASH: Ages: 2–5
This is a drop-off program that includes free play with a wide variety of preschool toys,
books, and games, story time, as well as snack.
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youth programs
shaarei shomayim: where kids matter
SHAAR YAFO: GRADES 1 & 2
This program involves a mix of davening and play. Children move among three activities:
tefilla (prayer), tochnit (fun activity), and parsha (learning activity relating to the weekly
Torah portion).
SHAAR ARYEH: GRADES 3–5
This program involves a mix of davening and fun. Children move among three activities: tefilla
(prayer), tochnit (fun activity), and parsha (learning activity relating to the weekly Torah portion).
We focus on davening skills, fun activities, and conversations on the Torah and its values.
TEEN MINYAN: GRADES 6-12
Our Teen Minyan, under the leadership of Koby Spiegel, meets throughout the year on
Shabbat mornings. On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, however, our teens daven with their
parents and lead our youth groups. This is much more than a minyan: teen-run shabbatons,
Friday night tisches, kumzitz in the sukkah, Shavuot night learning, shiurim at the Rabbi’s
home, and much more.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Shaarei Shomayim offers youth programming after school two nights a week for an additional
charge. For more information please call the office at 416-789-3213.
MONKEYNASTIX Ages 2-4 and 5-7 – A fun and challenging non-competitive fitness movement
education program which helps children develop confidence and positive self-image.
CHAMELEA Ages 4-7 - Chamelea Center After School Programs offer children a chance to
become a scientist, artist and explorer.
ART WITH TANYA Ages 4-7 – Allows for children to experiment with self-expression through
art.
Sportball Ages 4-7 – Focuses on building developmentally appropriate skills through
non-competitive sports, games and activities.
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SHAAREI SHOMAYIM
youth programs
shaarei shomayim: where kids matter
PARENT-CHILD LEARNING
Join us this year for our parent-child learning program. Each session is an hour and includes
time for parents to study with their child/ren, a short overview of the learning, and pizza, pop,
Parsha questions and prizes for all. Parent-Child learning is the perfect way to welcome the
new week with your family. We look forward to seeing you there. The schedule for 2015-2016
is:
Nov 7 – 6:30pm
Jan 9 – 6:30pm
Nov 14 – 6:30pm
Jan 14 – 6:30pm
Nov 21 – 6:30pm
Jan 24 – 6:30pm Melaveh Malkah / Tu B’Shvat Seder
Nov 28 – 6:30pm
Jan 30 – 7:00pm
Dec 5 – 6:30pm
Feb 6 – 7:00pm
Dec 19 – 6:30pm
Feb 15 – 7:00pm
Additionally, Shaarei Shomayim hosts the popular MiNer L’Ner program, a Chanukah
Havdalah with celebration with the residents and staff of Baycrest, featuring the a musical
program, family arts and crafts, and cookie decorating. This year’s program will take place at
the shul on December 12, 2015.
BAR / BAT MITZVAH PROGRAMS
Coming of age and entering into the Jewish faith as an adult is an exciting milestone for
Jewish youth and their families.
At Shaarei Shomayim, we tailor the Bar / Bat Mitzvah experience to meet the abilities and
needs of each young person and his / her family. Please schedule an appointment with Rabbi
Strauchler approximately 12 months before your celebration. He will discuss options for your
family and will develop a plan to meet your needs.
Shaarei Shomayim offers wonderful group programs for boys and girls prior to their Bar /
Bat Mitzvah. These programs begin in November; members and non-members are welcome
to participate.
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shaarei shomayim: where kids matter
BAR MITZVAH PROGRAM: Shaarei Shomayim will be starting a new Bar Mitzvah Program in
the fall. Young men will have an opportunity to study with Rabbi Cheses on a regular basis.
They will discuss ideas and values that matter to them and establish a closer relationship with
their shul community. This program is intended as a supplement to a young man’s individual
preparation for his Bar Mitzvah. Please contact Rabbi Noah Cheses for more information.
BAT MITZVAH PROGRAM: Coordinated by Avital Strauchler, Shaarei Shomayim’s Bat Mitzvah
Program is designed to prepare girls for their Bat Mitzvah, providing them with time and
inspiration to delve into the study and practice of Torah and mitzvot as they grow into young
women members and leaders of our community. They prepare for their own Bat Mitzvah by
learning about relevant topics in Tanach, halacha and Jewish philosophy during enjoyable
evenings together. Please contact Avital Strauchler for more information.
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SIMCHAHS / CELEBRATIONS
shaarei shomayim: where simchas matter
MAZAL TOV!
Shaarei Shomayim is the place to have your simcha, big or small. We have rooms of all sizes to
cater to your needs. Whether you are a long time member of our Shul, new member, or a not
yet member, our facilities are available to all for renting. Weddings, Bar / Bat Mitzvot, Baby
Namings, Britot, Special Birthdays, or for an intimate family gathering, Shaarei Shomayim
would love to host your simcha!
CapacityCost
Members:
Up to 400 people Starting from: $300
Non-Members: Up to 400 people Starting from: $450
LIFE CYCLE EVENTS
Life cycle events are a large part of Jewish communal life and often revolve around the shul.
Please turn to the shul for both religious practice and celebratory events.
Whether you are celebrating a birth, bar / bat mitzvah, wedding, or mourning the loss of a
loved one, our shul has the people, resources and information to guide and support you.
Please contact Rabbi Strauchler for any guidance during these times at 416-789-3213 ext 201
or by email at RabbiStrauchler@shomayim.org
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a helping hand
shaarei shomayim: where you matter
SHABBAT AND HOLIDAY MEALS
If you do not have a place to go for a holiday or Shabbat meal, please let us know. There
are many families who would be happy to welcome guests into their home. Please identify
yourself to the Rabbi at the end of the service, and he will happily facilitate this introduction.
WALKING TO SHUL
For senior members who find the walk to shul daunting, or who just want a little company,
please call Nicole Toledano, our Executive Director at 416-789-3213 ext 209 before
Shabbat or Yom Tov. Nicole will be happy to arrange for one of our volunteer members
to accompany you.
RABBI STRAUCHLER’S CHESSED HOTLINE
If you, or someone you know, could use a hand, our Rabbi wants to know! We are a
big shul and sometimes it is hard to hear news in a timely manner. Please email him at
RabbiStrauchler@ shomayim.org. The Rabbi handles any news of a sensitive or personal
nature and when appropriate, he liaises with the Chessed Committee, which provides
additional support, helping with meals, hospital or shiva visits or just a call to say hello.
Please email us with news of births, deaths, or the sick at info@shomayim.org.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
shaarei shomayim: where YOU matter
SECURITY
Security guards are on duty every Shabbat and holiday. During High Holidays, officers from
Toronto Police Services are hired as well. If one witnesses anything that could endanger
the congregation, it is vitally important to inform the guards so that they can address the
situation. If you see something, say something.
CLOAKROOMS
The main cloakroom is in the main level lobby. Individuals manning this room will provide you
with a ticket upon receipt of your belongings. The lower level has two areas for you to hang
up your own coats or leave small bags.
FIRST AID
The shul has a first aid kit on hand, as well as oxygen and a defibrillator. In case of emergency,
please identify yourself to someone in the cloakroom or to an usher, and they will notify the
appropriate people to assist you.
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS
The shul is wheelchair accessible. An elevator that accesses all three levels is located at the
north end of the building. The elevator will be on Shabbat mode during Shabbat and holidays
and will stop automatically at each floor for two and half minutes.
WASHROOMS
Women and men’s washrooms can be found on both levels. The main level washrooms are
wheelchair accessible and have been equipped with baby change tables. On the lower level,
a wheelchair accessible washroom is located off the lobby across from the lower level social
hall. Baby change tables are provided in both the women’s and men’s washroom in the youth
wing. Please note that these washrooms are not accessible during school hours.
NURSING ROOM
Women wishing to have a quiet and private place to nurse are welcome to use the Nursing
Room. This is located on the Lower Level north of the Beit Midrash, off the east corridor.
There is access to a private washroom off the Nursing Room.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
shaarei shomayim: where YOU matter
SIDDURIM (PRAYER BOOKS)
SHABBAT
During a regular Shabbat, our shul provides prayer books either at your seat or in the entryway
to each service. We stock three different prayer books. Each prayer book contains the text
of the service in Hebrew and in English. Please ask the person sitting next to you for help
in finding the correct page. Page numbers are announced from the Artscroll Siddur and
the Birnbaum Prayer Book for Sabbath and Festivals. We also have available the new Koren
Sacks Siddur. We stock two different Chumashim (Hebrew Bibles) from which we announce
page numbers. They are the Artscroll Stone Chumash and the Hertz Chumash.
HIGH HOLIDAYS
On the high holidays, members and guests are reminded to bring their own prayer book
(machzor). Should you not have a machzor for the holidays, a select number of additional
books will be kept at the welcome desk inside the main doors to the shul.
WWW.SHOMAYIM.ORG
Our website is the ultimate resource for all information relating to Shaarei Shomayim as well
as an efficient way to find and register for events and make donations. Don’t miss weekly
updates from Rabbi Strauchler in the Torah for Your Life emails.
Find us on Facebook at: facebook.com/shaareishomayim
OFFICE HOURS
The Synagogue office hours are as follows:
Monday - Thursday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Friday (and erev yom tov): 9:00am - 2:00pm
Contact us at 416-789-3213 or info@shomayim.org.
You can find a copy of this Guide online in the Shul Publications section at SHOMAYIM.ORG
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SHAAREI SHOMAYIM FLOOR PLANS
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W here I t A l l M atters
470 glencairn avenue | toronto on m5n 1v8 | 416.789.3213
www.shomayim.org