On the eve of the Jewish New Year, District 2 resident Steven Spodek is busy preparing for his volunteer duties as part of the High Holidays Outreach Initiative at the Adath Israel Congregation (best known simply as the Adath) in Hampstead
Steven is very proud of the program called Free Fast Fun, An Alternative Rosh Hashanah event featuring a one hour service, childcare provided and selected prayers and tunes. Here you get to learn the meaning of prayers and rituals, ask questions and blow and hear the shofar. Kiddush refreshments are also part of the package. There are no charges, solicitations, tickets nor reservations required.
This will take place on Monday, September 10 (5:30 pm) at. 223 Harrow Crescent in Hampstead.
“I have long admired Rabbi Michael Whitman’s commitment to community outreach, including this program that began in 2005,” said Steven. “Some of those who come attend a regular service want to understand the meaning of the prayers and they get that here. Most of those who come do not attend any synagogue service. We often hear people saying they have not been in synagogue in decades.”
Another example of a superb community service is that the Adath is proudly welcoming this year another District 2 resident, Natalie Constantine, and Nancy Witcher, ASL (American Sign Language) Interpreters. They will interpret Rabbi Whitman's High Holiday Sermons on:
- Rosh Hashana I – Monday, September 10, at 12:15 p.m.
Rosh Hashana II – Tuesday, September 11, at 12:15 p.m.
Kol Nidre – Tuesday, September 18, at 6:45 p.m.
Yom Kippur – Wednesday, September 19, at 11:30 a.m.
Anyone who can benefit from this is invited to join as guests for the entire service at no cost. It is necessary to register a request for this with the synagogue’s seating committee to make sure individuals are placed with a good view of Natalie and Nancy. Please contact the seating committee by calling or emailing Audra Libman, ADATH office manager at audra@adath.ca or 514-482-4252.
