June 6, 2025

A group of children and adults play with a large, colorful parachute indoors, with sunlight streaming through glass doors in the background.

June 6, 2025 | 10 Sivan 5785 | Candle lighting at 8:56 p.m.

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Yesterday, the IDF recovered the bodies of Judith Weinstein, a fellow Canadian, and her husband, Gadi Haggai, a couple devoted to peace.

Murdered by Hamas on October 7, they were held by the Mujahideen Brigades, the same terror group behind the killing of Shiri Bibas and her young sons, Ariel and Kfir. Fifty-six hostages remain, and we continue to demand: Bring Them Home. Read more here.

A short work-week this week at home, as communities across BC came together to celebrate Shavuot—a time to reflect on the values that shape Jewish life. Thanks to the efforts of our Community Engagement team and community connectors, that spirit of connection was felt province-wide, bringing people of all ages together in meaningful ways.

Shavuot Celebrations from Langley to Salt Spring Island and beyond.

On the North Shore, families gathered at Har-El for a lively celebration hosted by the PJ Library and Jewish Federation. They enjoyed cheesecake, fresh fruit, and plenty of laughter while participating in story time with Katia Fermon, PJ Library's manager. The festivities continued with an interactive musical session led by Monika, which was filled with singing and fun activities for the kids.

The energy was contagious, and the older children are already looking forward to the next event.

Over 80 community members gathered in Langley for a farm-to-table dairy experience. Families celebrated the holiday with hands-on activities, delicious dairy treats, and meaningful moments of connection. From feeding and milking cows to churning butter, everyone embraced festive family fun while deepening their connection to the agricultural roots of Shavuot.

The Shavuot celebration also made its way to Whistler, where Rabbi Paul Plotkin led a lively night of Torah, topped off with ice cream, cheesecake, and spirited discussion.

On Salt Spring Island, a Shabbat on the Beach and Shavuot celebration captured the unique spirit of Jewish life in remote communities.

Regional community programming continues to expand.

In Port Coquitlam, a group of 12 Jewish seniors got together for an on-the-go coffee meetup. These kinds of gatherings are especially meaningful for older adults, offering not only connection and conversation but also a vital sense of community and belonging.

These celebrations reflect the strength of our community—rooted in tradition, shaped by each region’s unique character, and made possible by our incredible Community Engagement team and connectors. Together, we’re building a vibrant, inclusive future for Jewish life in B.C., grounded in the values that bring us together.

Navigating Canada’s Political Landscape: A Briefing with CJPAC and David Herle

We recently had the opportunity to join Mark Waldman, Executive Director of CJPAC and a long-standing leader in Jewish political engagement, along with David Herle, political strategist and host of The Herle Burly and Curse of Politics podcasts, for an in-depth briefing on Canada’s evolving political landscape. Joined by other Jewish leaders and organizations, we explored what these shifts mean for our community today.

As we navigate increasingly complex challenges, conversations like these are essential. They equip us to stay informed, resilient, and actively engaged—and they remind us of our shared responsibility to build and sustain Jewish life for generations to come. Most importantly, they reinforce the critical importance of engaging Jewish Canadians and our allies in the democratic process, and of fostering active political participation to ensure our voices are heard and represented.

Pride Month: Honouring Every Voice in Our Community

Finally, as we step into Pride Month, it’s a meaningful moment to reflect on the beautiful diversity within our Jewish community.

Standing with our LGBTQIA+ friends, family, and neighbours is not just a value we uphold—it's part of who we are. This month, and every month, we reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive, compassionate community where everyone is welcomed, celebrated, and free to live with pride and authenticity.

Shavuot celebrations, reflections during Pride Month, and conversations about our collective future all remind us that our strength lies in the diversity, connection, and shared values that unite us. There are many more opportunities ahead to connect, celebrate, and live our Jewish values in meaningful ways. Be sure to check out our community calendar for upcoming events!

Shabbat shalom,