April 5, 2024 | 26 Adar ll 5784

As we approach the solemn six month mark since the October 7 Hamas massacres in Israel, we pause to honour the memory of the lives tragically lost by these senseless acts of terrorism. Six months have passed since the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, yet the pain and anguish linger in our hearts, as we fight for the hostages still being held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza.

Today and every day, we stand united in remembrance and solidarity with the people of Israel, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and Jewish strength in the face of antisemitism. We condemn terrorism in all its forms and vow to never forget the innocent victims of these horrific attacks.

As we reflect on this somber weekend, our thoughts turn to the 134 hostages still held captive in Gaza, enduring unimaginable hardships every day. We pledge to continue our unwavering hope for their safe return, advocating for their release until every hostage is safely reunited with their loved ones. During these dark days, we draw strength from the resilience of Jewish people throughout history, and we affirm that no act of terror will ever extinguish our light of hope and Jewish pride. May the memories of those murdered be a blessing, may those who are injured recover fully and swiftly, and may all of our hostages be safe and free. Am Israel Chai. 

Join Calgary Jewish Federation on Monday, April 8 at 7:00pm at Beth Tzedec Congregation, as we commemorate six months since the October 7 Hamas terror attack with In Their Own Words. Hear first-hand testimony of a survivor from the Nova Music Festival, Eilat Tibi, and a survivor from Kibbutz Zikim, Idan Krief. Register here and listen to their stories of survival and heroism from their personal, community, and national points of view. Thank you to the Canadian Zionist Federation and the Zionist Enterprises Department of World Zionist Organization for bringing these guests to Calgary.

On Monday, April 15 at 7:00pm, join Francie Cyngiser at Memories of Auschwitz, as she shares her father's oral testimony of Holocaust survival in a live presentation of Through Their Eyes, a film that weaves testimony of Sidney Cyngiser, with his grandchildren's perspectives. A live Q&A with Francie Cyngiser will follow the film. Register now for this enlightening event – you may attend in-person at the Central Library or join us virtually. Presented in proud partnership with Calgary Public Library. For more information email Marnie Bondar and Dahlia Libin, Holocaust and Human Rights: Education and Remembrance Co-Chairs. This program is supported by The Isadore and Florence Burstyn Memorial Fund for Human Rights & Holocaust Education, KSW Calgary Holocaust Education & Commemoration Endowment Fun, Viewpoint Foundation, and the Human Rights and Holocaust Education Fund at the Calgary Public Library Foundation.

Join PJ Library® Calgary for Passover Frogs & Fun on Sunday, April 14 at 10:00am to noon at the Paperny Family JCC! Families with children up to eight years old can register now for an unFROGgetable adventure! Calgary Reptile Parties will hop on over with some of their frog friends (and more!) for an up-close encounter.

Our Pesach program with PJ Our Way® is an exciting Matzah Mayhem for youth in grades 4 to 6! On Sunday, April 14 from 5:00 to 7:00pm at the JCC, Registered Dietician Melanie Ksienski will be leading us in making a matzah-based dinner / dessert. After we create our delicious food, we will enjoy it all together! Register here. For more information about these two fun-filled holiday events, email Sydney Traux or call 403-537-8592.

Building an inclusive community is our priority.

Contact us and we will make every effort to meet your needs.