|
November 28, 2025 | 8 Kislev 5786 | Candle lighting at 4:00 p.m.
|
|
|
This message has approximately 751 words and will take about 3 minutes to read.
|
|
|
This past weekend marked an exciting milestone for our Jewish community: the launch of the very first stop of the PJ Library of BC Tour. With the generous support of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, PJ Library is expanding its reach across the province bringing stories, connection, and Jewish experiences to families beyond the Lower Mainland. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to creating spaces where Jewish life can flourish, no matter where families call home.
|
|
|
To kick-off the beginning of this expansion, our PJ Professional, Katia Fermon, visited the Okanagan with programs centred on belonging, home, and community. During her time in Penticton and Kelowna, Katia met new parents, explored partnership opportunities, and opened the door to meaningful future programming.
|
|
|
|
We’re eagerly looking ahead to upcoming visits to Vancouver Island communities in the new year, with hopes to connect with Northern BC communities in the spring. If you’d like PJ Library to visit your community, please reach out to Katia at [email protected].
Connecting Through Culture: Hanukkah at Multicultural Day
|
|
|
As PJ Library expands its reach, we’re also finding new ways to share Jewish traditions with broader audiences. At the Victoria Homeschooler Hub’s Multicultural Day, we hosted a Hanukkah table to share the traditions, history, and culture of the Jewish Festival of Lights. Children learned about the story of the Maccabees, the miracle of the oil, and why Hanukkah is celebrated for eight nights.
|
|
|
|
Moments like these show the power of connection; they spark curiosity, open conversations, and create a sense of belonging. When someone asks a question or smiles while spinning a dreidel for the first time, it’s more than an activity—it’s a bridge between cultures and a celebration of community.
Looking Ahead: Brighten BC and Unite for Light
|
|
|
We’re proud to bring Jewish communities across BC together, and this spirit of connection continues as we launch Brighten BC—a province-wide celebration of Hanukkah that brings families from Victoria to Vancouver and beyond together. From city gatherings to community events, people across British Columbia are coming together to enjoy the festivities.
|
|
|
|
Explore Brighten BC and find events near you.
Calling community organizations across BC: submit your Hanukkah celebrations here. Let’s shine brighter together!
The signature event, Unite for Light, presented by Chabad Lubavitch BC in partnership with Jewish Federation, will take place on Sunday, December 14th at 3:30 PM at the Vancouver Art Gallery.
|
|
|
Together, we’ll light the iconic Silber Family Agam Menorah, a stunning symbol of unity and resilience that has illuminated downtown Vancouver for more than 30 years. First lit in 1993, this menorah is Canada’s tallest and was designed by renowned Israeli artist Yaacov Agam. It has become a beloved tradition and a powerful statement of Jewish pride in the heart of the city.
|
|
|
|
“The Agam Menorah is more than just a work of art. It shines as a symbol of hope and reminds us that even in challenging times, the power of light can overcome darkness. At Hanukkah, we come together to celebrate the enduring strength of Jewish life in Canada, Israel, and around the world” said Arnold Silber.
Invite a friend, neighbour, or community ally to join the festivities and help us Brighten BC, this Hanukkah. Take a picture with a menorah—whether at home, at an event, or at the Vancouver Art Gallery—and use #BrightenBC and tag @jewishvancouver on social media. Let’s fill our feeds with light and joy this holiday season!
Got 30 seconds? Grab your phone and tell us what Hanukkah means to you in a 10–30 second vertical video with a festive background (menorah, candles, lights, dreidel, or decorations). You can include your name or business to help spotlight the people and organizations that keep Jewish life strong and connected. Send your video via email.
Strengthening Our Future: Day of Giving
|
|
|
As we plan to celebrate the Festival of Light, we’re reminded that the brightest future is one we build together. On Tuesday, December 2nd, starting at 8:00 AM, our partner schools—King David High School, Richmond Jewish Day School, Tamim Academy of Vancouver, and Vancouver Talmud Torah—will unite for a Day of Giving to strengthen Jewish education. Click here to make your gift.
|
|
|
|
When we invest in education, we invest in the next generation of Jewish life. Your support helps our children learn and grow, thrive with confidence and take pride in their heritage. Every gift is a spark that lights the way forward for our community.
Finding Connection Across Communities
This week was American Thanksgiving, a holiday I have fond memories of from growing up in the United States. The holiday itself was created during a moment of deep division in the United States as a day that everyone, regardless of background or belief, could share. At this time of year, I often feel the distance between my American home by birth and my Canadian home by choice. More than anything, I find myself yearning for that spirit and the reminder of how meaningful it is when communities open their doors to others.
That feeling was echoed this week as I spoke with high school students in the CJPAC Generations program about building relationships beyond our own community. I was reminded that some of our most impactful connections begin in simple ways, around a table, through shared rituals, and in honest conversations. Seeing a new generation so eager to connect, educate, and lead gives me immense hope.
As we enter Hanukkah and launch Brighten BC, that message feels especially timely. This year we encourage everyone to invite others into our light, deepen understanding, and strengthen the bonds that hold our community together. Whether at a Shabbat table, a community event, or a public menorah lighting, every act of connection helps Brighten BC.
Before I sign off, I’m excited to share something new with you…
Introducing Ezra’s Curated Corner
We’re adding a new feature to our Shabbat message: Ezra’s Curated Corner. Each week, I’ll share a handpicked selection of books, articles, and podcasts that have inspired me and sparked meaningful conversations. Think of it as your personal gateway to ideas that nourish the mind and soul. I can’t wait to explore these treasures together, get ready to discover something new every Shabbat. Take a look below.
|
|
|
Ezra S. Shanken
CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver
|
|
|
|
|
Dr. Naar will be in Vancouver on January 25 for the Wexner Speaker Series.
|
|
|
|
Check out and register for our free online sessions for newcomers.
|
|
|
|
|
MPs must confront Hamas and other terror threats to Canadians. Take action.
|
|
|
|
Contact the CMHR’s CEO and tell her that our history must not be erased
|
|
|
The Israel-Hamas ceasefire has held for over a month, with few sirens despite occasional flare-ups. As President Trump advances his peace plan and regional tensions simmer, Dan speaks with Dr. Micah Goodman to ask: after two years of war, is Israel stronger, weaker—or both? Did Israel win?
Listen to the podcast here.
|
|
|
|
Police stats suggest Jews in Canada are 9 times more likely to face hate crimes than in the U.S.—but some argue the numbers conflate antizionism with antisemitism. So what’s the truth? Host Jesse Brown digs in, speaking with people who say they’ve experienced discrimination firsthand. Listen to the podcast here.
|
|
|
|
