News

Twenty-eight computers were able to join OJC on Sunday, April 3rd for a truly great presentation by Sharona Liman of Kfar Saba, Israel entitled, ”Following King David to the Stronghold of Ein Gedi”. Sharona is a licenced Israeli tour guide who, using quotations from the Hebrew Bible took us on a journey from the heights of Jerusalem, down through Jericho and the Dead Sea, and ending up in the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. She has the unique ability to put together biblical references with current archeologic and tourist sites in Israel. Thank you so much to Sharona for leading us and to all those who attended the event.

Thank-you to all the Bar/Bat Mitzvah kids who participated in the assembly of “Shalach Manot” baskets on Sunday, March 6th, prior to the upcoming Purim holiday. Thanks to the parents for bringing their kids in and assisting by driving the kids and the baskets in the coming weeks to seniors, shut-ins and other members of our Community. It had been a long time since we have had our kids together with everyone in the community – it was really fantastic for everyone to connect again. Yashar Koach to all who participated.

Thank-you to all who joined OJC’s presentation on Sunday, February 27th. The talk given by Monique Rubens Krahn of New Jersey told the story of her mother’s escape to freedom from Nazi-occupied Bordeaux, France with the assistance of an illegal Portuguese visa. The visas were provided by Aristides de Sousa Mendes, Portuguese consul general at the time in Bordeaux. These visas, given specifically against the direction of the Portuguese government, provided safe passage for thousands of Jews escaping persecution in Occupied Europe.

The OJC had its first social function in nearly TWO years on Saturday February 19 at Stuart Park outdoor skating rink. Thank you to the many friends that joined us to skate, kibbutz and hang out enjoying warm hot chocolate and coffee. Initially the weather was not ideal but within a short time it was a beautiful sunny and quite setting for everyone to enjoy… We even learned that a large contingent in our community speak Spanish. It was really exciting to see so many families and we are looking forward to being able to get together again very soon.

Thanks to Ray Turner for hosting our Jewish trivia night, ”What’s your Chai Q?” on Saturday evening, February 12th on ZOOM. About a dozen computers were on line to join in on the fun, answering tough questions on sports, Israel, bible, music categories. Three attending members were able to ”cash in” on the prize money! Thanks to Ray and Marcia for the time that they put into organizing this cute program.

OJC had our very first family-oriented Kabbalat Shabbat service on Friday, January 28th at an early time of 6 pm, to allow young families and children to attend. Thanks go to Rabbi Tom for this great idea to attract the young folk at a time and a level that they can most appreciate. Many families were in attendance on ZOOM, along with several of the ”more mature” members of the Community. Kudoos to all that attended.

OJC presented the 2nd of our movies in our Film Festival on Saturday evening, January 29th on the ZOOM platform. The title, ”You Will Not Play Wagner” told of an intergenerational conflict with the long-term traditional prohibition of not playing Wagner’s works in Israel. The conflict was between a young Israeli conductor and an American survivor of the Holocaust. Very intriguing film. Interesting discussion followed after the screening between members of the audience.

Thank-you to Barb Pullan for again leading OJC in our Annual Tu B’Shevat online seder. A great evening of meaningful readings and videosongs all relevant to Nature and the Environment. Everyone enjoyed the 4 cups of delicious wine, accompanied by fruits and snacks. What an enjoyable evening together celebrating the New Year of Trees. Already looking forward to next year Barb!

Thank you to the 17 OJC members and 54 guests from across Canada who attended our co-sponsored event on the “Sepharad – the Greatest Story Never Told”. Very professionally presented and informative for all who attended. Special thanks to the Jewish Heritage Alliance for co-sponsoring this event together with OJC. Great exposure for both JHA and OJC across Canada.

OJC Community enjoyed the 8 days of Communal Menorah lighting from November 28th through December 5th – first night led by Evan Orloff and the subsequent nights by Rabbi Tom. Good participation with about 21 computers on board each night. Accompanied by songs and stories. A very nice way for the Community to get together enjoying each others’ company!