Dear friends,

I will start this week’s Shabbat message with an expression of gratitude. Gratitude to each of you as community members, to the Jewish Federation of Ottawa’s board members and staff, to our partner organizations, and to our many Federation and grassroots volunteers. As a community we have worked together through a multitude of transitions, during a painful and challenging year for the Jewish world. Thank you all.

In the Hebrew calendar, we are now in the month of Elul — the 40 days from Rosh Chodesh leading up to Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. The name of the month of Elul is an acronym for ani l’dodi v’dodi li — “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine,” which comes from the Song of Songs. It relates to the spiritual connection between G-d and the Jewish people, and it can also be extended to include our connections with one another.

Elul is a time for deep introspection, when we reflect upon and take responsibility for our personal actions during the past year, we apologize and ask for forgiveness from those we have harmed, and we commit ourselves to change.

During Elul, we are also encouraged to take on a new mitzvah, whether it is giving tzedakah, helping a neighbour, or offering a hand to someone in need. When we do a good deed, as we strive to be kinder, more just, and more compassionate, there is often a ripple effect that extends far beyond the immediate act.

This idea of action, of doing good, is deeply rooted in Jewish thought. Maimonides emphasized the profound importance of individual deeds. His philosophy was that each of us must view the world as being equally balanced between good and evil, and that one good deed — one mitzvah — can tip the scale and bring redemption. This is a powerful and inspiring message. It reminds us that we are not powerless in the face of the world’s problems. Every mitzvah we perform has the potential to create ripples of change, influencing not only our own lives but the lives of those around us.

As we approach October 7th, I reflect on the past year that has challenged us in ways we could never have imagined. We are overwhelmed by the ongoing conflict, pain and suffering of innocent individuals, and the unimaginable reality of the hostages. Yet each and every one of us, as we struggle to make sense of the ongoing war and the dramatic increase in antisemitism in our own community, continues to dig deep, to find strength and resilience — as individuals and as a community.

Our new CEO, Adam Silver, has stepped into his role at such a critical time for our community and for the Jewish world. His vision and commitment to Jewish Ottawa are already being felt and appreciated. We are fortunate to have him guiding us as we navigate through these difficult times. Under his leadership, I am confident that our community will continue to grow and thrive. 

When we light our Shabbat and yontef candles, recite our prayers, and hear the sound of the shofar, let us embrace 5785 with hope and optimism for the days ahead. And may our mitzvot help to tip the scale of the world towards light, justice and peace for all. 

Wishing you and your families a Shabbat Shalom and a healthy, happy, sweet, and peaceful New Year.  

Shana tova u’metukah,

Karen Palayew

Important Information

for the October 7 Memorial

For those registered to attend Remember 10/7, an email confirmation with the location details will be sent 48 hours before the event.

Please note, only registered attendees will be admitted — no walk-ins will be allowed.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.