Ritual Life

SERVICES

Beth Israel is pleased to welcome everyone to our religious services. The services are based on the Orthodox liturgy and ritual, and are led by Cantor Rumack, Religious Director and members of the congregation. Services are held Friday evening and Saturday morning, following the Orthodox rituals, and for all Jewish festivals and holidays. During the Summer months, no Friday evening services are held. Member guests and non-member guests are welcomed to attend High Holiday services. There are guest fees associated with attending both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. Please contact Beth Israel office for more details .

MIKVEH

The only mikveh in Southeast Ontario is located within Beth Israel. Anyone who needs to use the mikvah is asked to phone the synagogue at least 48 hours before it is require it. A private doorway at the rear of the building can be used to enter and exit the mikveh.

CEMETERY

The Beth Israel cemetery, which follows the Orthodox tradition, has existed since the late 1800s. It is located on Sydenham Road, across the street from the Ontario Hydro offices and between Highway 401 and Princess St. The congregation's volunteer Chevra Kadisha ensures the deceased are prepared according to Orthodox tradition for internment in Beth Israel's cemetery. For more information, contact Laurence Marans.

For directions to the cemetery, please refer to this map.

LIFE CYCLE EVENTS

Current Spiritual Leader, Cantor Michael Rumack (during Rabbi Elkin's extended medical leave) ably officiates baby naming ceremonies, bar/bat mitzvahs, weddings, and funerals. Bar and bat mitzvah youth are taught by the Cantor Rumack, with some assistance from Queen's University over the period of one year and many are able to lead large portions of the service as well as read from the Torah and chant the haftorah. .