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 Rabbi Elkin and members of the congregation. Kabbalat Shabbat services are held every Friday evening at 6 p.m. (7 p.m. during the late Spring and Summer) and Shabbat services are held Saturday morning, beginning at 9:00 a.m. and ending at noon. A typical Shabbat service may feaure a sermon by the rabbi, a dvar Torah by a member of the comunity, a baby naming ceremony, or a sponsored congregational kiddush to celebrate a family simcha. Services are held as well for all Jewish festivals and holidays. Rosh Hashannah and Yom Kippur are the only times when guest fees apply.

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

Rabbi Elkin ably officiates baby naming ceremonies, bar/bat mitzvahs, weddings, and funerals. Bar and bat mitzvah youth are taught by the Rabbi or Jewish students 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.