Hanukkah 2023 5784 חנוכה At Beth Torah December 7th through December 15th | 25 Kislev
Rabbi: Louis J. Sachs Cantor: David Edwards President: Stan Freedman Executive Director: Raquel Black Gabbai: Mark Krantzberg Ba'al Korei: Nathaniel Callen
47 Glenbrook Ave, North York, ON M6B 2L7 www.BethTorah.ca
@BethTorahTO Beth Torah Congregation Facebook.com/BethTorah.ca
Hanukkah: A Celebration of Strength and Solidarity Rabbi Louis J. Sachs
As we approach Hanukkah this year, our hearts are heavy with the recent terrorist attack in Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza. The tragic loss of life and the rising tide of antisemitism, both around the world and here in Toronto, cast a shadow as we prepare to celebrate this festival of lights. It is in these challenging times that the message of Hanukkah – a celebration of resilience, faith, and hope – becomes all the more essential. The holiday commemorates a time when our ancestors overcame great adversity and oppression. The miracle of the oil, burning for eight days with only a day's supply, is not only a symbol of hope but also a reminder of the enduring spirit of the Jewish people. Throughout history, when the odds seemed impossible to overcome, we’ve not only survived but thrived. As a people, we are no stranger to adversity. Yet, like the Maccabees, we have continually found the strength to rise again, drawing on our faith and each other. Today, as we face new challenges, the story of Hanukkah resonates with profound relevance. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow. Our resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to our collective spirit and determination. In these difficult times, we are called upon to tap into this resilience once more, to stand together in solidarity and support one another. The rise in antisemitism, both globally and locally, is deeply concerning. It is a stark reminder that the lessons of history must be continuously taught. In combating this tide of hate, our actions and voices are crucial. We must engage in education, dialogue, and advocacy, not only within our community but also in broader society, to promote understanding. In the same way that a Hanukkiah shines brighter each night as more candles are added, we must seek allies to stand with us and share their voices with ours. We must stand united against antisemitism and all forms of hate.
As we light the candles this year, let each flame be a testament to our unyielding spirit. Let them symbolize our commitment to peace, our resolve to defeat hate, and our unwavering dedication to sustaining the traditions and teachings that have guided us for more than 3,000 years. These lights are not just a commemoration of our history but a symbol of hope for the future. As we gather with our families and friends this Hanukkah, may we remember the meaning of this holiday. It is a celebration of light over darkness, of faith over despair, and of communal strength over isolation. The story of Hanukkah is not just a story of the past, but a story yet to be finished. It is a living narrative that continues to unfold in each of us. As we light our hanukkiot this year, let us do so with a renewed sense of purpose and hope. Let us remember that, together, we have the strength to build a brighter future. May the light of our candles fill our hearts with joy in a world of sadness. May the light of our traditions banish darkness from a world filled with hate. May the light of each other give us the strength and resilience to face the challenges ahead. Chag Urim Sameach -RLS
Hanukkah greeting for Beth Torah From Cantor David Edwards As many of us would agree, the world changed for the Jewish People and Israel on Oct 7th when the evil of Hamas and its advocates was wrought upon our innocent men women and children in Southern Israel. Since then, the response of many has been to use the attacks to inflict the pain of anti semitism and our people across the world and here in Canada are experiencing fear and hatred not seen since the 1940s. In this time of darkness, depression and fear, how and where do we find the courage to go on? To fight for our right to live in freedom and peace? I am certain many of us have asked these questions as the images of terrorists demonstrating in downtown Toronto are sanctioned by our vacillating politicians as they curry favor under the flag of evil. It brings us back to our history, to Hanukkah and to the time when the heroes of Maccabean times managed, against all odds to overcome the Greeks and redeem our temple of old. And where do we find the light? Within us, each and every person can together bring the decency and goodness of our cause to be a Light among the Nations. Sharon and I experienced such a moment whilst we were on vacation recently. We found ourselves on a cruise ship and looked to find the usual Friday Night Sabbath service which is generally found on the Cruise Compass Publication but not this time. When we phoned about it, we were told there was a service but it was not being published because of the security situation. Sharon and I decided to attend in the designated room the cruise line had set aside for us and to our delight, we found about a dozen other Jewish attendees who had also wished to have a gathering and a davening. Here we were, all complete strangers from different parts of the world connected by our Jewishness.
The ladies lit candles, we sang Shalom Aleichem, had an abbreviated davening, kiddush and motzei and also a mini dvar torah where everyone was given an opportunity to say a few words to enhance the Ruach of the moment. We bonded together as a kehillah, in that sacred space and time and we hugged each other as family when the service was over with the singing of Am Yisrael Chai. A light in the darkness indeed and since we are now approaching Hanukkah, the root of which is Chinuch meaning education, I learnt something quite special that night that was incredibly uplifting. It brings to mind the age old teaching that we increase the number of candles each of the 8 nights of Hanukkah in order to bring greater light to our holiday. May that be the case for All of Us especially for this year! In speaking with my cousin Ashi in Jerusalem today (mid November), I discovered that he has become a grandfather again as his daughter Inbal and my 2nd cousin gave birth to a healthy baby boy (Mazel tov!) and the brit milah will have taken place by the time this article has been published. Once again, a morsel of life and hope in a darkened world and it is wonderful to experience some good news. Chag Hanukkah Sameach and Am Yisrael Chai!!! Cantor David Edwards
www.bethtorah.ca
Supporting Israel We are proud to say that Beth Torah members have been resolute in their solidarity with Israel, actively engaging in community initiatives, participating in events such as our "Solidarity Shabbat” and “Havdalah for Israel”. Additionally, through programs like "Havdalah and Challah Braiding for Israel," we have come together to weave cultural connections, exemplifying a steadfast commitment and connection to the nation.
Supporting Israel
Rabbi Sachs was honoured to speak about the situation in Israel and rising antisemitism in Canada on both CBC Radio’s The Current and CBC’s The National. Many of our members and staff have been active participants in demonstrations for Israel throughout the city and abroad. Pictured here is board member Sharlene Wilder (@awilderparty) at the rally for the hostages at Christie Pits.
When a child is ill, it affects the entire family. Chai Lifeline Canada, a non-profit organization, provides support for families with seriously ill children through programs like their Toy Drive. Purchasing a toy can become a challenge, but Chai Lifeline Canada strives to alleviate burdens and bring smiles to children's faces. Bring a toy to Beth Torah to participate before December 15th!
Way back when, Israel was in the grip of a mean king called Antiochus Epiphanes. He wanted everyone to live like the Greeks, so he banned Jewish traditions like celebrating Shabbat, reading Torah, and enjoying festivals. He even took over the Jewish Temple for Greek worship! But, the Maccabees, a pack of brave Jewish folks, led by Mattathias and later by his son Judah, said, "No way, Jose!" They fought like lions for their faith, won the Temple back, and made it pure for Jewish worship once more. And so, Hanukkah is a time to celebrate the Maccabees' super win and the miracle of the oil that kept the light shining for eight days. Let's light up the darkness and keep the flame of religious freedom burning bright!
Potato Latkes: 4 large russet potatoes 1 small white onion, grated 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 2 tablespoons matza meal 2 tsp kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper Vegetable oil, for frying
To make latkes, peel and grate potatoes, then soak them in water to prevent browning. Drain and squeeze out as much juice as possible, leaving the potato starch in a bowl. Combine the starch with eggs, matza meal, salt, pepper, grated potatoes, and onions. Fry the mixture in oil until both sides are golden brown, then drain on paper towels. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to portion out the batter and press it down with the flat underside of the cup to create crispy edges. This recipe yields 15 medium latkes.
Parmesan Gravy:
1 tbsp butter 1 clove minced garlic 1 tbsp flour 1 cup vegetable stock 2 tsp soy sauce 2 tbsp freshly grated Natural & Kosher Cheese parmesan salt and pepper, to taste
To make a silky smooth gravy, melt butter in a saucepan, add garlic and flour, and stir until golden. Slowly add stock while whisking, then add soy sauce and parmesan. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, then season with salt and pepper. For a pareve version, omit parmesan and use vegan butter. This recipe yields 3/4 cup and can be doubled.
Poutine Latkes: potato latkes (recipe above) parmesan gravy Natural & Kosher Cheese Fresh Mozzarella, pulled apart into shreds
Set the potato latkes out on a platter (make sure they are hot so that the cheese melts). Scatter the fresh mozzarella over it and drizzle generously with gravy (make sure the gravy is hot so it can melt the cheese).
Bringing families and friends together for the High Holidays was SO much fun!
As we move into the winter months, we’re looking back on the nice sunny weather!
Materials: 1. Colored construction paper or cardstock 2. Scissors 3. Glue 4. Markers or crayons 5. String or yarn 6. Hole punch Instructions: 1.Cut out dreidel shapes from the colored construction paper. You can find dreidel templates online or draw simple dreidel shapes freehand. Make sure to cut an even number of dreidels. 2. Allow the kids to decorate the dreidels with markers or crayons. They can add colorful designs, patterns, or even write their names on the dreidels. 3. On each side of the dreidel, draw or glue on the four Hebrew letters: Nun, Gimel, Hey, and Shin. These letters stand for the phrase "Nes Gadol Haya Sham," which means "A great miracle happened there." 4. Use a hole punch to make a hole at the top of each dreidel. 5. Cut a piece of string or yarn and thread it through the hole in each dreidel. Tie a knot at the top to create a loop for hanging. 6. Hang the dreidel decorations around the house or on a mini Hanukkah tree. You can also use them as festive garlands.
Sushi in the Sukkah? Say no more!
We’ve been enjoying Pub Nights at our new location at the Madison Avenue Pub! More coming soon!
Ingredients: 1 cup apple cider 1/2 cup bourbon (Optional) 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 cinnamon stick 3 whole cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Orange slices for garnish Cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions: 1. In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, bourbon (Optional), honey, fresh lemon juice, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg. 2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it's hot but not boiling. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld. 3. Once heated, remove the mixture from the heat and strain out the cloves and cinnamon stick. 4. Pour the warm spiced punch into mugs or heat-resistant glasses. 5. Garnish each drink with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick for added flavor and decoration. 6. Serve the Spiced Hanukkah Punch while it's still warm, and enjoy the cozy and festive flavors of the season.
Beth Torah’s
Tree of Life
As the end of the fiscal year quickly approaches, and you are searching for the perfect place to give tzedakah... look no further than commemorating a simcha, honouring or memorializing a loved one, or recognizing a special achievement on the Tree of Life in the gallery of Beth Torah.
from the
Beth Torah
Clergy & Office Staff
Louis J. Sachs Rabbi
David Edwards Cantor
Yana Kirichenko Accounts
Raquel Black Executive Director
Garrett Ryan Programs /Communications
Lena Palumbo Facilities Manager
Elana Delberg Lifecycle /Rabbi’s Assistant
from the
Beth Torah
Executive Board STANLEY FREEDMAN
PETER FARKAS
PRESIDENT
TREASURER
MITCHELL ABBEY
STEPHEN TURK
JORDAN TURK
DAVID LEWIS
VICE PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT
SECRETARY
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
BOARD OF TRUSTEES JEREMY ALTER DAVID BERON ANNA MILLER PAUL BAIN BRIAN FELDMAN MARK TYTEL ILENA BORINSKY WARREN IKEMAN SHARLENE WILDER