Shabbat
Beth Isaiah is currently offering two options for Saturday morning services:
A lay-led traditional service is scheduled three times a month, followed by refreshments and a meaningful discussion.
A liberal service, led by Cantor Cheryl Wunch is held once a month, and begins at 10:30 am. This service, which is offered in a combination of Hebrew and English, allows for both virtual and in-person interactive participation. A sit-down kiddush luncheon follows this service.
High Holiday Services
Rabbi led liberal High Holiday services are held on both days of Rosh Hashanah, Kol Nidre evening, and Yom Kippur Day. All services are available both in person and virtually.
Attendance is included in all membership. Tickets may be purchased by non-members. Students are welcome to attend at no cost.
Tashlich takes place at the nearby Speed River on the afternoon of the first day of Rosh Hashanah.
Yiskor memorial prayers are recited during the Yom Kippur morning service.
Purim
Purim is celebrated in March. The reading of the Megillah, the Book of Esther, takes place both in person and virtually. In addition, a party or carnival is held for all ages, with costumes, games, crafts and refreshments. A community project, such as collecting non-perishable items for the Guelph Food Bank, rounds out the Purim activities.
Succot
Families always enjoy erecting the succah on synagogue property, and children decorate it with drawings and by hanging fruits. According to tradition, lulav, etrog, and refreshments are enjoyed.
Chanukah
A community Chanukah party takes place on a Sunday during the eight days of Chanukah. The children participate in activities including games, crafts, music, dramatic performances, and candle lighting. Typical Chanukah foods, including latkes and sufganiot (Israeli jelly donuts), are enjoyed by all.
Yom Hashoah
The day of remembrance of the Holocaust is commemorated by Jewish communities around the world. At Beth Isaiah, the service includes candle lighting by survivors and their descendants, and recounting of stories of survival.
This service is open to the public and is often attended by local and provincial government officials and local clergy and their congregants.
The theme of this observance is the importance of remembering and assuring that such a tragedy never happens again.