Sukkot Community Events
Hundreds of people of all ages participated in dozens of events and celebrations during the week-long Sukkot festival, referred to in Judaism as "the time of our rejoicing.” JRCC Branches hosted several creatively themed events, evenings specifically for adults to focus on their own spiritual growth and social activities, and to experience the joy of Sukkot and “Simchat Beit HaShoeva” in their own way.
Some of the events included: Shakshuka in the Sukkah at the JRCC Woodbridge, where participants enjoyed the traditional spicy Israeli breakfast in the sukkah on a Sunday morning, preceded by morning prayers. JRCC West Thornhill hosted nonstop festivities and farbrengens throughout Sukkot. JRCC East Thornhill had a “Sukkah Hop” where people traveled between different sukkahs in the community. JRCC South Richmond Hill & Maple held a Dinner Under the Stars and a Shabbat Sukkot Experience as part of the JRCC Young Professionals initiative. JRCC Rockford also held a Dinner Under the Stars evening, while JRCC Willowdale hosted Sushi & Soup in the Sukkah. Special events were also held for teens and seniors. In all, it is estimated that over 1,500 people participated in dozens of JRCC Sukkot events.
Simchat Torah at JRCC
As the news spread of the hostages being released, the Simchat Torah celebrations took on extra significance this year, especially given the trauma associated with this usually joyous day. Last year we celebrated despite the somber memories and challenges after the tragic events of October 7. This year, the joy of the release of the hostages gave us an extra boost in our efforts to overcome the challenges and come together joyously while also remembering the victims.
Special prayers were recited, including Yizkor for the victims of Oct 7, in addition to the general Yizkor service. Over 1,000 participants joined Simchat Torah services at JRCC branches in the GTA, featuring a full dinner, l’chaims, dancing, and special treats and activities for children.
New Torah Scroll Dedication in South Thornhill
The JRCC South Thornhill community came out to celebrate and welcome a new Torah scroll that was inaugurated into the community’s synagogue. The Torah scroll was donated in memory of Chayim Levy, Chaya Leah, and Tanya Horodny.
Sukkot Children’s Events
This year’s JRCC Sukkot programs for children brought the joy of the holiday to families across the community, with exciting events at every branch. Each program featured music, games, and Sukkot-themed crafts and activities that helped children experience the holiday in a fun and meaningful way – including eating in the Sukkah and shaking the lulav and etrog.
Festivities took place at JRCC branches in South Richmond Hill & Maple, East Thornhill, West Thornhill, South Thornhill, Rockford, and Willowdale, with highlights including “Pizza in the Hut” parties and special children’s Sukkah celebrations. The joyful atmosphere and hands-on experiences helped make Sukkot come alive for the next generation.
Our Daycare
This month, our children at the JRCC Daycare explored the wonders of fall through sensory play, creative crafts, and hands-on learning. From building sukkahs and discovering textures to learning about Noah’s Ark and our amazing bodies, every activity sparked curiosity and joy!
