Beth Tzedec Podcasts: Recent Episodes
Beth Tzedec Congregation
Podcasts from Beth Tzedec Congregation in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Watch our programs and services at https://bethtzedec.tv . Join Beth Tzedec Congregation https://beth-tzedec.org
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on the tension between joy and pain in Israel’s recent events, urging people to hold multiple truths with empathy to help rebuild a more compassionate world. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services February 1, 2025. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the remarkable resilience and strength displayed by individuals who endure unimaginable traumas. He emphasize the importance of hope, the ability to recover spiritually and emotionally after profound suffering. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services January 25, 2025. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the deep value of redemption and the moral responsibility to protect human dignity, rooted in Jewish tradition and history. He connects these principles to current events, emphasizing the importance of hope, justice, and compassion in the face of hardship. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services January 18, 2025. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the story of Joseph and Jacob, highlighting the tension between visibility and hidden identity. She explores Joseph’s journey of assimilation into Egyptian culture and his eventual return to his Jewish roots, connecting this narrative to the importance of living openly and proudly as Jews in contemporary times, even amidst challenges. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. September 28, 2024, Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the importance of leadership, responsibility, and representation within the Jewish community. He emphasizes that in today's connected world, everyone in the community shares the responsibility of speaking and acting on behalf of the Jewish people. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services January 4, 2025. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on Hanukkah as a profound symbol of resilience, courage, and hope in the face of adversity. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services December 28, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the power of prayer to interrupt cycles of immorality, foster gratitude, and align actions with higher values. He emphasizes that consistent practice of blessings can cultivate habits of holiness, recalibrate moral compasses, and infuse everyday moments with mindfulness and compassion. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services December 21, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on how Jewish tradition consistently values peace, ending prayers and teachings with aspirations for harmony. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services December 14, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on the significance of stones as physical markers of meaningful moments in one’s life and spiritual journey. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services December 7, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman reflects on the evolving nature of Judaism in the context of technological and social change, emphasizing its multifaceted identity as more than just a religion but as a rich, ongoing conversation spanning centuries. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services November 30 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the challenging and transformative act of seeking forgiveness from someone one has deeply wronged. She emphasizes how confronting one's mistakes, overcoming pride, and asking for forgiveness can be one of the most profound tests of character and a pathway to righteousness. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services November 23, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Baruch Frydman-Kohl reflects on the challenges faced by the Jewish community and the potential for building bridges through dialogue and mutual support. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services November 16, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on resilience as a blend of outward action and inner commitment to enduring values, urging us to face uncertainties with courage, strengthened by heritage and shared purpose. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. November 9, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on God’s covenant after the flood, highlighting the shift from divine destruction to human responsibility for creating a world of peace and justice. She shares recent moments of remembrance and unity within the Canadian Jewish community, including calls to prioritize the redemption of hostages and the fight against antisemitism, and emphasizes the power of human choices to build bridges of compassion and hope. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. November 2, 2024, Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on Yehuda Bauer's legacy, highlighting his dedication to viewing the Holocaust not merely as history, but as a call to action, urging humanity to take responsibility for creating a more just and compassionate world. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. October 26, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the deep grief and resilience following the October 7th attacks. She highlight the Jewish community's strength in balancing sorrow with celebration, honoring the fallen while continuing to embrace hope and life. Excerpt from Shemini Atzeret service. October 24, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Yacov Fruchter reflects on the significance of time in the Jewish experience, emphasizing how it serves as both a marker of unity and a source of meaning. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. October 19, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on the deep unity of the Jewish people, embodied in shared traditions. She explores how personal and collective experiences of joy and sorrow connect the community across geographical and cultural divides. In times of hardship, she emphasizes the need to support one another to find strength, comfort, and, ultimately, joy. Excerpt from Sukkot day two service. October 18, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on themes of loss, memory, and resilience through the lens of Torah and personal experiences. She draws parallels between Moses' undiminished vitality at age 120 and the fading external signs of mourning, emphasizing the importance of keeping memories alive and sharing stories of loved ones across generations to ensure they are never forgotten.
This sermon by Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on grief, resilience, and solidarity within the Jewish community following the tragic events of October 7. Through personal stories, teachings, and acts of remembrance, she emphasizes the importance of unity, hope, and the responsibility to support one another during difficult times.
Yacov Fruchter reflects on grief, hope, and resilience in the face of personal and communal loss. He emphasize the need to integrate pain into life while still moving forward, finding strength in unity, hope, and the capacity to heal. Excerpt from Rosh Hashanah Short and Sweet service. October 4, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada
Yacov Fruchter reflects on the importance of community, empathy, and connection during times of personal and collective hardship. He emphasizes the power of asking others about their struggles and offering support as a way to heal and build stronger bonds. Excerpt from Rosh Hashanah Short and Sweet service. October 3, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the challenges facing the modern Jewish community, emphasizing the importance of understanding Jewish history and tradition. She calls for action to preserve Jewish knowledge and counter misinformation, ensuring the next generation maintains pride in their identity. October 4, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on how God could continue to believe in humanity, particularly in light of modern atrocities. She testifies that despite the brokenness of the world, acts of love, compassion, loving-kindness continue to serve as the pillars holding humanity together, even in times of despair. Excerpt from Rosh Hashanah service. October 4, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
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Rabbi reflects on the deep impact of October 7, a date that has become synonymous with grief and trauma in Israel and the Jewish community worldwide. The rabbi explores how the sense of isolation, heightened by a lack of global solidarity and a surge of anti-Semitism, has compounded the pain felt after the Hamas attack. Despite this, the rabbi emphasizes resilience and post-traumatic growth, highlighting how the Jewish people have historically turned their suffering into strength, unity, and a renewed sense of purpose. Excerpt from Rosh Hashanah service. October 3, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Shai Held gives a pulpit address on "Love in the Ruins: Responding to Devastation (and to October 7)". Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. September 28, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the commandment to celebrate life's good and its complexities, especially in times of conflict. He explores the tension between celebrating victories over enemies and the moral discomfort it evokes. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. September 21, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on the Jewish tradition of choosing life, joy, and goodness even in the face of darkness and pain. She emphasizes the importance of small, intentional acts of kindness and compassion, reminding us that our choices can bring light to the world and make a profound difference in the lives of others. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. September 14, 2024, Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the significance of choice, unity, and the centralization of worship in Deuteronomy, exploring how these themes shape Jewish identity and community. He discusses the historical and political context of Deuteronomy, highlighting the importance of shared rituals, values, and sacred occasions as the true unifiers of the Jewish people, beyond external threats or crises. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. August 18, 2024, Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin explores the meaning of true satisfaction and the viral role gratitude plays in achieving it. August 24, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the return to Israel and reunified Jerusalem, prompting reconsideration of mourning for past destructions, as our current lived experience no longer reflects those losses. However, given the ongoing challenges in Israel and global antisemitism, the need for remembrance and reflection remains relevant, highlighting the importance of compromise and unity for a hopeful future. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. August 17, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the tension between the necessity of war and the hope that it will ultimately bring lasting peace and security. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. August 8, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the historical and moral duty to rescue hostages, emphasizing the importance of valuing human life over material concerns. Drawing on biblical narratives, he explores the complexities of negotiation and redemption. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. August 3, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Yacov Fruchter reflects on recognizing and uplifting individuals who stand out in our communities by empowering and amplifying their voices and actions. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. July 27, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on the components that make up a good blessing. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. July 20, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the importance of taking the time to process grief. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. July 13, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on our responsibility to choose our own fate and forge our own paths. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. July 6, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on our responsibility to choose our own fate and forge our own paths. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. July 6, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the significant impact influence can have, drawing connections to current events. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. June 29, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the power of evil speech and our responsibility to not listen to it. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. June 22, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects the notion of Jews being indigenous to the land of Israel. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services June 15, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Wernick explains: the rescue of hostages by the IDF brought joy, but was marred by the sorrow of a father, Yossi, who died just hours before learning his son was saved, likely due to his grief. Amidst these mixed emotions, the community's acts of kindness and remembrance during Yizkor highlight the resilience and compassion of the Jewish people, with efforts to honor those lost and support one another in times of crisis.
Excerpt from Shavuot morning services. June 13, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin discusses unity. Excerpt from Shavuot morning services June 12, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Jacob Blumenthal reflects on the blessing of the wilderness and living in-between moments . Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. June 8, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on current events. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. June 1, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Professor David Golinkin reflects on the state of Judaism in the Jewish State. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Service May 25, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Daniel Silverman reflects on March of the Living. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services May 18, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the notion of community strength. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Service May 11, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the notion of an scapegoat relating it to current events. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Service May 4, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the unique aspects of this year's Passover Seders, conveying a message of hope by welcoming our loved ones, through the symbolic act of opening the door. Excerpt from Pesach Service Apr 30, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Yacov Fruchter reflects on the significance of preserving our values while embracing the diversity of those around us. Excerpt from Pesach Service Apr 29, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Aviva Chernick reflects on her personal journey and spiritual insights, drawing inspiration from her father's teachings and her own experiences of grief and renewal. She shares a profound interpretation of the Song of Songs and a personal creation, a Talit bag inspired by the biblical story of Moses in the cleft of the rock, symbolizing divine love and protection.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the challenge of celebrating Passover this year amidst ongoing events in Israel, emphasizing the significance of singing through the difficult times. Excerpt from Pesach Service Apr 24, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on recent events, sending heartfelt prayers for a peaceful and meaningful Pesach to all. Excerpt from Pesach Service Apr 23, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the goodness and peace that can occur as a result of a good home filled with words of kindness and strong values. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Apr 20, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Richard Robertson, Director of Research and Advocacy for B'nai Brith Canada, gives a pulpit presentation on grassroots advocacy in combatting antisemitism. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Apr 13, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the ways in which one can embody the presence of God through their actions. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Apr 6, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on how we make our choices and behaviors. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Mar 30, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the sin offerings in Vayikra and how leaders of today should admit their mistakes. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Mar 23, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Lara Rodin explores the intimate moments of leaving voicemails for God as a child, a metaphor for the desire to connect with the divine in a modern, seemingly distant relationship. This sermon delves into the duality of God's presence, asking if it is a distant entity accessible only in sacred spaces or a close, personal presence we can encounter daily, challenging us to find God's dwelling place among us and within our interactions. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services March 16, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on International Women's Day and the suffering of Israeli woman today. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Mar 9, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on his trip to Israel. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Mar 2, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on how our chosen attire reflect who we are and our beliefs. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Feb 24, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Tanenbaum Fellow Inbal Sitbon reflects on what it means to give from the heart. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Feb 17, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Scholar-in-residence Yaakov Katz reflects on how October 7 is changing Israel and discusses the current events with Iran and nukes. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Feb 10, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
rabbinic intern Lara Rodin reflects on prayer and the importance of applying God's words into our lives. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Feb 3, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Cantor Sidney Ezer reflects the important music and singing as a vehicle to strengthen and unite us as a people through times of struggle. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Jan 27, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on kinship ethics and shared humanity and their significance in times of war. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Jan 20, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Discover the power of action in times of crisis: Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin delivers a stirring sermon that contrasts the decisive bravery of a fallen IDF soldier with the inaction of political leaders, urging us to draw inspiration from those who lead not just with words, but with bold, meaningful actions.
Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services. Jan 13, 2024.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the importance of resistance and support especially in these trying times for the Jewish community. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Jan 6, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on her journey this year, sharing stories and things she observed. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Dec 23, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada
rabbinic intern Lara Rodin reflects on our communal responsibility stand up and stand with on one another especially in times of crisis. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Dec 16, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the importance of taking action. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Dec 9, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
rabbinic intern Lara Rodin reflects on where we can find God especially during hard times. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Nov 25, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation.Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the October 7 massacre. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Nov 18, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Canadian journalist and author Ellin Bessner reflects on Remembrance Day, drawing parallels between historic and current events. Ellin sheds light on the stories of a few Jewish soldiers who aided in World War I and II. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Nov 11, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the 10 tests God gives Abraham. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Nov 4, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the importance of words and their meaning in the context of current events in Israel. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Oct 21, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the ongoing events in Israel. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Oct 14, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the current events in Israel. Excerpt from Shemini Atzeret morning Festival Service Oct 7, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the omission of women's voices in public ritual. Excerpt from Festival morning service for the Second Day of Sukkot Oct 1, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
In his sermon, Rabbi Steven Wernick discusses the convergence of Sukkot, a holiday commemorating the harvest and the wilderness journey, with the Truth and Reconciliation initiatives for First Nations in Canada. Rabbi Wernick draws parallels between Sukkot's core themes of gratitude, unity, impermanence, and the pursuit of justice, highlighting their relevance to the goals of reconciliation with indigenous communities. He underscores the significance of acknowledging painful historical truths, actively listening to and empathizing with indigenous experiences, and actively working towards justice and healing. Rabbi Wernick also outlines his community's commitment to self-education and engagement in anti-racism and inclusion efforts as part of their responsibility in this transformative process.
Excerpt from Sukkot morning services, 30 Sept 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the importance of memory. Excerpt from Yom Kippur Services Sept 25, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects the significance of profound teachings that connect generations and foster a sense of belonging for all. Excerpt from Erev Yom Kippur services Sept 24, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the ways in which anger can consume one's self and the significance of learning to let go of it. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Yacov Fruchter reflecting on the imporatnce of being present and supporting others. Excerpt from Short and Sweet Service Sept 25, 2023. Beth Tzdedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the importance of developing and maintaining "I and Thou" relationships in our lives. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Yacov Fruchter shares insights on the significance of considering others and fostering connections with one another. Excerpt from Short and Sweet Service Sept 24, 2023. Beth Tzdedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on teshuvah and the importance of repentance during this time in order to journey back towards God. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Sept 23, 2023. Beth Tzdedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick's sermon from Rosh Hashanah day two. Sept 17, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick's sermon from the first day of Rosh Hashanah. Sept 16, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin's sermon for Rosh Hashanah day one. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin's sermon for Rosh Hashanah day two. Sept 17, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the meaning of the Shabbat prior to Rosh Hashanah. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Sept 9, 2023. Beth Tzdedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on addiction and recovery. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services September 2, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin, Rabbi Steven Wernick, and Daniel Silverman reflect on the latest film from Adam Sandler and Netflix, 'You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah'. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services August 26, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on Parashat Shoftim. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services Aug 19, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on what Awe is and how to capture and deepen your sense of Awe in your life. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services August 12, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the importance of interpreting challenging texts in the Torah with a positive light. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services August 5, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the modern state of Israel. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services July 29, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on Shabbat Hazon. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services July 22, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on how extended journeys often bring light and answers into one's life. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services July 15, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the importance of understanding one's moral position as things aren't always as they appear. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services July 8, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Yacov Fruchter reflects on the importance of comforting others in their time of need. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services July 1, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on Parshat Korach. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services June 24, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Anna Brudner reflects on the importance of soulful integrity in our interdependent lives. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services June 17, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on messages within the Torah that provides words of inspiration for graduates. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services June 10, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Baruch Frydman-Kohl reflects on his time in the community and offers wise words for the congregation to continue to live by. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services June 3, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services, May 27, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on Flags. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services May 20, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on justice and creating a system of values based on beliefs. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services May 13, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Baruch Frydman-Kohl reflects on bracha and the monarch. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services May 6, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Baruch Frydman-Kohl reflects on the meaning of holiness and what makes something sacred. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services April 29, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.
On the anniversary of her Bat Mitzvah, Aviva Chernick reflects on the nature of healing. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services, April 22, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on hope in a time of tragedy. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services April 15, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congreagtion Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the power of storytelling from one generation to the next. Excerpt from Passover services April 13, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the undeniable power of music. Excerpt from Passover Morning Services April 12, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Yacov Fruchter reflects on reaching out. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services April 8, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on freedom and the status quo. Excerpt from Pesach services April 6, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Baruch Frydman-Kohl reflects on recent developments in Israel. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services April 1, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation. Toronto, Ontario
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on Parashat Ki Tisa. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services, 11 March 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on Parashat Tetzaveh. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services March 4, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on recent advancements. Excerpt from Musical Participatory Shabbat Morning Services Jan 21, 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick's reflects on navigating the highs and lows of life. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services 7 Jan 2023. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on what it means to strive to be the best version of yourself. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services Dec 31, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the need to pause and consider. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services on 24 Dec 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on peace. Excerpt from Musical Participatory Shabbat Dec 17, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on ability. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services, Dec 10, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Dr. Yizhar Hess delivers an impassioned sermon on the occasion of Rabbi Steven Wernick's receipt of his Honourary Doctor of Divinity from the Jewish Theological Seminary. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services, Dec 3, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick delivers a powerful sermon. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services Nov 26, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Anna Bruder reflects on prayer. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services Nov 19, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin shares Rabbi Artson's approach to understand the Binding of Isaac. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services Nov 12, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Reflecting on the confluence of Remembrance Day and the 25th anniversary of his Bar Mitzvah, Daniel Silverman challenges us to consider what is important enough to fight for and to seek to preserve. Excerpt from Shabbat of Remembrance, Nov 5, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on anti-semitism. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services Oct 29, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin connects footwear with memory. Excerpt from Shemini Atzeret & Yizkor services Oct 17, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
It's never too late to try something new. Rabbi Steven Wernick's sermon from Oct 15, 2022. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. Beth Tzedec Congregation.
Our strength comes from deep inside of us. Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin's sermon from Yizkor. Recorded on Oct 7, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Regret is an essential component of the teshuvah process. By Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin. Recorded for Kol Nidrei on Oct 7 , 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services Sept 17, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on private property. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services Sept 10, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on Zionism. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services Sept 3, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on Joy. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services Aug 27, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the teachings of the Torah both inside the home and out in the world. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services August 20, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on building the future. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services 13 August, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the need for adult behaviour in challenging times.Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services August 6, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the state of the world before the flood, and what it means to us today. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services July 30, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on climate change. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services July 23, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on Israel's improbable existence. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services July 16, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on what to do when you lose your temper. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services July 9, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade with respect to Halakha. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services, July 2, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
I want to invite you to Beth Tzedec to participate in our daily minyan. There are several reasons to participate in minyan. First and foremost three times a day our people have a tried and true approach to prayer. To being in God's presence and to expressing gratitude. In fact every day, every morning in our Tefillah. We recite Mizmor l'Toda, Psalm 100; a Psalm of Thanksgiving. It's an opportunity to cultivate what one of my teachers called an attitude of gratitude. So we come to Shul, we come to minyan in order to pray to experience God's presence and to cultivate that attitude of gratitude Mizmor l'Toda, a Psalm of Thanksgiving.
People also come to minyan because, a community, for two and a half years, We've missed the opportunity to be together. To feel each other's presence. To share our most intimate moments of Celebration and of Sorrow. Minyan is a place for that - especially for those who have suffered a loss or coming to remember a Yahrtzeit or for Yizkor coming to minyan is an opportunity to build community. Our daily breakfast accentuates that opportunity as people stay and schmooze and chat and get to know each other. Where lasting friendships are formed.
We also come to minyan in order to support those that have suffered a loss those who need to recite the sacred words of Kaddish. Our reaffirmation of faith in the face of loss. Kaddish can only be recited in the presence of a minyan; the presence of a community of 10 people in the same Sacred Space together. So come to minyan and help ensure that those who are here to recite Kaddish, either because they're in bereavement or they're observing Yahrtzeit will be able to do so.
Finally, we come to minyan because it's a mitzvah. Our tradition speaks in the language of responsibility and one of the essential responsibilities that a Jewish Community has is to ensure a place of Prayer. For those that need to pray either to uplift their Spirits in Thanksgiving. Or to be reaffirmed at a time of loss. It's incumbent upon all of us to ensure that Beth Tzedec, our house of justice is also a Beit Tefillah; a House of Prayer.
Not just the physical space, though that's beautiful and important, but even more important is the communal space. A minyan of 10 people coming together to express our commitment to Jewish tradition and to Jewish values. And to accentuate and uplift our prayers in Devarim Shebekedusha - those prayers that require 10 people to pray.
So come and join me at Beth Tzedec for our daily minyan every morning and every evening. We look forward to welcoming you.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the need to pause and consider before rendering judgement. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning Services June 25, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on music unifying the soul. Excerpt from Shabbat morning Service June 18, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Ontario
Rabbi Fryer Bodzin reflects on aging. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services June 11, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on Shavuot and Yizkor. Excerpt from the Second Morning of Shavuot Services. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the concept of Chesed with respect to "Panim el Panim." Excerpt from the first morning of Shavuot services, June 5, 2022 Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the nature of wilderness. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services June 4, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the meaning of Faith. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services May 21, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.
Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the Jewish conception of Faith. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services, May 28
Join Cantor Sidney Ezer and Asher Farber on the first Tuesday of every month revolving around Rosh H̱odesh. We will explore many Jewish musical themes and genres, one for every month of the Jewish calendar.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on grape juice. Excerpt from Evening Service April 17, 2022
I was asleep but my heart was awake…the voice of my Beloved is knocking, let me in.” (Shir Hashirim 5:2.)
On this Shabbat before Pesaẖ, we warm up our prayer space, our homes and our hearts with this pre-service concert highlighting the beautiful poetry of Shir Hashirim—Song of Songs. This musical event features Aviva Chernick, Beth Tzedec Artist in Residence, together with Cantor Sidney and an accomplished musical ensemble. Shabbat services to follow.
Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin discuss the often-debated practice of Eruv Tavshilin. April 20, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation.
Rabbi Steven Wernick recounts the attack by Almalek, and reflects on its meaning in the Ukrainian conflict. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning service March 12, 2022. Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.