Or Shalom

Mortality learning series

Or Shalom Synagogue is launching Awakening to Mortality, a new learning and community series that invites open, thoughtful Jewish conversations about death, aging and what it means to live fully.

The series is offered in celebration of OSACK – the Or Shalom Auxiliary Chevra Kadisha – which was established in 2025 to serve community members who are not eligible for burial preparation through the community Chevra Kadisha administered by the Schara Tzedeck Cemetery Board, including Jews of patrilineal descent, transgender members, and others. OSACK volunteers are trained to work in partnership with a funeral services provider to offer tahara (ritual preparation of the body) and other sacred end-of-life practices grounded in Jewish tradition.

Drawing on Jewish text, ritual, reflection and creativity, Awakening to Mortality approaches death not with fear, but with curiosity, compassion and spiritual awakening. The series includes two four-week Virtual Zusia programs and a monthly in-person gathering called MortaliTea, all open to the wider community.

Highlights include an exploration of teshuvah (return and repentance) with Rabbi Daniel Siegel; teachings on aging, elderhood and wisdom with Ralph Benmergui; learning about Chevra Kadisha practices and the sacred care of the body after death; Jewish ways of supporting mourners, including shiva (seven-day period of mourning), shloshim (30-day mourning period) and the mitzvah of nichum aveilim (comforting mourners); and writing as spiritual preparation, including crafting a Heart Will® with Willow End of Year Education.

A Heart Will® is a guided reflective process and written document that allows a person to articulate what matters most to them – their values, love, wisdom, memories and hopes for those they leave behind. Unlike a legal will, which focuses on assets and logistics, a Heart Will® centres meaning, relationships and spiritual legacy.

Siegel reflected on why this learning matters: “We find God not in the trauma, but in the ways we care for each other.”

Through these educational offerings, Or Shalom hopes to help participants live more intentionally, love more generously and meet each day as a gift.

Programs run from January through April, with more offerings to follow. Registration details are available through Or Shalom’s website, orshalom.ca, or by emailing [email protected].

– Courtesy Or Shalom

Or Shalom breaks ground on renovations

Or Shalom held a groundbreaking ceremony on April 27, launching the MoreOR project. (photo from Or Shalom)

On Sunday, April 27, Or Shalom Synagogue marked a major milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony, launching the MoreOR project – a long-anticipated renovation and expansion that will transform the synagogue on East 10th Avenue into a more sustainable, accessible and welcoming community hub for generations to come.

photo - John Fuerst, lead for Or Shalom’s housing task force, at the April 27 groundbreaking — John Fuerst, lead for Or Shalom’s housing task force, at the April 27 groundbreaking. *(photo from Or Shalom)*

The ceremony began with a niggun, a wordless melody, and a moment of silence in remembrance of the victims of the tragic events at the Lapu Lapu Day festival, grounding the day in both reflection and hope.

Several special guests joined the community to mark the occasion, including David Bogdonov of the Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation and Quelamia Sparrow, who offered a meaningful land acknowledgement. Sparrow’s words reminded those gathered of the importance of community, and the deep history and ongoing responsibilities connected to the land on which Or Shalom stands.

Synagogue board member Mira Oreck and project lead John Fuerst shared the story of the MoreOR project. Reflections from Bogdonov and board member Jodie Eaton emphasized the importance of building spaces that will serve future generations.

Rabbi Arik Labowitz highlighted that MoreOR is far more than a construction project – it’s a bold investment in the spirit of Or Shalom, a commitment to nurturing Jewish life in Vancouver.

photo - The shul’s Rabbi Arik Labowitz was one of the speakers — The shul’s Rabbi Arik Labowitz was one of the speakers. *(photo from Or Shalom)*

The groundbreaking ceremony included a ritual inspired by Jewish tradition: the breaking of a glass. Commonly seen at Jewish weddings, this act served as a poignant reminder that, even in moments of profound joy, we remain mindful of the brokenness in the world – a symbol of resilience, responsibility and hope, as Or Shalom embarks on this next chapter.

The MoreOR project takes advantage of the current synagogue building’s solid foundation and central location. It will add new classrooms, expand the kitchen, renovate the social hall, improve accessibility with the addition of an elevator and create a zero-carbon, environmentally sustainable facility.

“We are deeply grateful to all of our donors and community members, whose vision, commitment and generosity have brought us to this milestone,” said Oreck. “This project is about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about building a future rooted in sustainability, inclusivity and connection.”

To learn more about the MoreOR project or to contribute, visit orshalom.ca/moreor.

– Courtesy Or Shalom

OrSh open house

Or Shalom’s after-school program open house takes place May 28. (photo from Or Shalom)

Designed for ages 6 to 13, Or Shalom’s after-school program brings Jewish learning to life through music, storytelling, art and experiential activities. To learn more about it firsthand, check out the school’s open house on Wednesday, May 28, 5-6:30 p.m., at Cityview Church, 4370 Sophia St. – Or Shalom’s temporary home while the synagogue is being renovated.

Rooted in Jewish Renewal values, Or Shalom’s educational program offers a holistic approach that nurtures curiosity, compassion and a vibrant connection to Jewish life. In addition to creative exploration, the school also teaches Hebrew, Jewish prayer and traditional skills, giving children the tools to engage meaningfully with Jewish texts, rituals and community. Children are encouraged to participate fully – mind, body and spirit – in an inclusive environment that honours both tradition and innovation.

Or Shalom invites everyone to meet its community, experience the program and explore how your child could thrive in it. Email [email protected] with any questions.

– Courtesy Or Shalom