Hello and welcome to our website.

Until about 8 years ago, like so many other Jews, I was somewhat removed from Judaism. I was brought up in an Orthodox environment but switched to Conservative Judaism when I arrived in Canada and married. I then found myself going to services only three times a year, if that, and really not getting much out of it. What brought me back to Judaism and a committed involvement to a shul? Simply, I was lucky enough to be invited to a Bar Mitzvah here at Har Zion and I immediately discovered a form of Judaism that really appealed to me.

Firstly I found a Rabbi that “spoke my language” and inspired me to think about what being Jewish really meant to me.  I took a good look at my Jewish journey to date and what direction I next wanted it to take.

Secondly I found a worship experience that was calming, inclusive, meaningful, and most of all enjoyable. The prayers were, and continue to be, so musically rich that our worship services have become our trademark. Even if you are not a shul lover, I urge you to come to one of our choral services and experience the music.

Thirdly I found a most caring congregational family who made me feel so immediately welcome.  So many of these committed congregants willingly volunteer their time to run all of our many programs,

Finally, I also appreciated knowing that there was no pressure to do or join anything. I could just come to services, relax, have some quiet time, and enjoy the music.

Last year some 90 new families must have felt similar to the way I do and joined our congregation. We are all thrilled to welcome them to our temple family.

This year is our 40^th Anniversary. We have ‘come of age’ as it were. We have been operating on a fiscally sound budget for a number of years now, our program offerings have increased due in part to ideas contributed by our new members. Our 40^th year celebrations include many special functions and events and our members, together with a scribe, are writing and dedicating our very own Torah. 

As you browse through our website you will discover that we are a full service congregation with services every day, and sometimes more than one service on Friday evenings and Jewish Holidays. Our education programs cater to young and old alike, and our many programs have something for almost everyone, no matter your age, gender, level of Jewish knowledge, or specific interest. Among these programs are ways to fulfill the Mitzvah of Gimilut Chasadim – performing acts of love and kindness.

I invite you to try us out for yourself. You will find that we are a liberal, warm and inclusive congregation of some 550 families, over 70% of which are engaged and who participate in the various programs and/or worship services. We have special incentive pricing for your first year of membership, so you can take a full year to decide if we are the right congregation for you.  If you are under 40, we have an even better introductory program (if that is possible). We also offer High Holy Day tickets when space permits.

If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at president@templeharzion.com, or our membership chair, Paula Freedman at membership@templeharzion.com. We would love to hear from you.

David Teeger

President