A message from Cantor Emeritus Beny Maissner
In recent months, Cantor Maissner, our beloved Cantor Emeritus, has had some health concerns. Knowing how important he is to the Holy Blossom community and how close so many congregants are to him, we share this update from Beny and Hope with you now.
Dear Holy Blossom Family,
Beny has been diagnosed with an aggressive cancer. We have an excellent care team and a treatment plan, which will begin soon. For now, we are continuing our usual routines and working on building strength for the journey ahead. We are feeling hopeful.
We are deeply touched by your love and concern. We wish we could respond to each of you personally, but we know you understand that we need to focus our time and energy on Beny’s health and treatment now, Your good thoughts, prayers, and support mean the world to us and give us strength. We know you’ll be there for us along the way.
With love and gratitude,
Beny and Hope
We wish Cantor Maissner and Hope, their children and grandchildren, much strength and comfort during this challenging time. If you would like to send a personal message to Beny and his family, please write in the comment section below. No doubt, he will read every word and feel the embrace of the congregation, which he treasures.
We are, of course, including Cantor Maissner in our daily, congregational Mi-She-bayrach prayer for healing. Please include his shem tov (good name) in your own personal prayers, too. He-Chazan Binyamin Ze’ev ben Yitzchak Ha Levy v Rivka Chayah. For more than four decades, Cantor Maissner has led us in heartfelt prayer; now it is our turn to pray for him.
הקדוש ברוך הוא ימלא רחמים עליו להחללימו ולרפאתו וללהחזיקו ולהחיותו
May the Holy One of Blessing show him compassion and graciously restore him to good health, strength, and long life.
Cantor Maissner,
I am so sorry to hear that you are ill. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Sending love,
Stewart Cramer, Ricky Adelstein, Thad, Josh and Isaac
Dear Cantor Maissner,
We were so sorry to hear the news about your health. We wish you a speedy recovery with a minimum of pain and suffering. Unfortunately, we understand what you are going through and know how difficult life can be.
Best regards, Judy and Eric Breuer
Dear Beny and Hope I know you will beat this cancer. You are a strong positive person. I go back a long way enjoying your presence. I am now 79 and when I was in my 40s and had my Bat Mitzvah you were there to help us learn whatever we needed to know. When I was in the choir you were very patient with me most of the time and included me in spites of my vocal shortcomings. So do what the doctors recommend. Stay positive and let your spirituality guide you. Love to you both.
To Beny
We wish you strength in your battle to get well again. We will be eager to hear the news that you are overcoming this circumstance. Your family and the Holy Blossom Temple Community is with you, as are we.
With utmost respect and affection,
Carol & Robert Collin & family
We are devastated to learn of Beny’s diagnosis. The statistics are remarkably in favor of those with a positive attitude during the course of their treatment. We pray that Beny is able to maintain his uplifting positive attitude throughout this journey and we look forward to his complete recovery.
Janeth & Alex Henry
Dear Beny and Hope,
Over the years you have been able to overcome any health issues, and we trust that your strength and courage will get you through this as well. Our voices join so many others in wishing you a refua shleima.
Anita and Michael
Dear Cantor Maissner, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We hope your treatments are successful and a complete and healthy recovery.
You have such a strong and supportive congregation and family to get you through this difficult time.
Warmly Steve and Suzie Pustil
Dear Cantor Maissner,
Thinking of you and wishing you strength for a prompt recovery!
We know that you will battle this.
Courage!
Reina, Don, Sarah and Michael
Beny
I have been with many patients in their journey through cancer treatments. I am here offering any help, advice ,love from a Nurses point of view to help you and Hope and your family get through this time. Please reach out to me Beny. No ask is too small or to big. All my love Gerry
Dear Beny,
A virtual hug for you and Hope as you face the challenges of your diagnosis. Sandi and I wish you both much strength on the journey ahead and our prayers for your complete recovery.
With much hope and affection,
Jeff Dicker and Sandi Smith
Dear Beny
For more than fourty years you have been inspirational as you have brought us a deeper meaning during the services. You have been at our families simchas and your voice has brought a meaningful expression to our prayer.
Roger and I have personally experienced health issues and really understand the value of knowing the support and love from the people around you.
Beny, we are with you and wish you an easy time during your treatment with a successful outcome.
With so much gratitude for what you’ve offered our family we send you our very best wishes.
Love, Susan and Roger Stronell
Dear Cantor Maissner,
The Wolfson family is sending only positive thoughts as you face this battle. We hope that your strength, courage and love of your family will help you through this difficult time.
Dorothy and Bill
Dear Beny and Hope and family:
Our family is so sorry to hear this news.
We are sending you our very, very best wishes for a refuah sh’layma.
Beny, you have been an important part of the life of each member of our family.
We have always been impressed and inspired by your unbelievable energy and positive attitude.
Each of us holds you in our hearts with abiding love and the greatest of esteem.
You will be in our prayers and thoughts each and every day.
We also send our love and best wishes to your beautiful family–to Hope, Tal, Rivka, Shira and their partners, and the precious grand children.
Susan Baskin and Jack Micay, and Nathan, Rachel and Jonathan Micay
Dear Cantor Maissner,
I am so sorry to hear that you are going through a very difficult time. Like others, I believe your strength and that of your family will help bring you to health.
Cantor, we are not close personal friends. Instead I am one of the many congregants who you’ve touched through your beautiful voice. And meaningful prayer.
You have inspired us so we will now pray for you.
Thank you for making all of us understand the power of community when we come together and pray.
Jonathan and I send our best thoughts to you and Hope.
Diane
To Cantor Maisner and family. I am so sorry to hear you are managing with cancer and wish and pray for your ease and comfort. Cantor Maisner was so dear to my parents and when he reached out after both of their passings, I was touched by the kindness and tenderness to which you brought to me during my time of sorrow. I again, hope this challenging time passes quickly and easily. Thinking of you at this time.
Dear Kantor Maissner,
We were heartbroken to hear about your diagnosis, and we want you to know that you are in our thoughts. It was a profound honour to have you officiate our wedding ceremony on June 25th, 2023. Even in retirement, you gave us the gift of your presence, your voice, and your spirit—something we will cherish for the rest of our lives.
Your kindness, wisdom, and dedication have touched so many, and we count ourselves incredibly fortunate to be able to say we had you sing at our wedding. Your strength and faith have always been an inspiration, and we hope you feel surrounded by the love and gratitude of all those whose lives you have enriched.
We are holding you in our hearts, sending you prayers for comfort, peace, and strength. Please know that your legacy is profound, and your impact is everlasting.
With deepest respect and gratitude,
Michelle and Aaron Kronenfeld (along with our family the Herer Holzapfel’s)
Beny and Hope. I am on a similar adventure. Each day I remind myself life is a journey guided by God’s ways and God’s timing. Who knows what God’s plans are for each of us. I will keep you in my prayers.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you – as are our best vibes! You have been strong for so many others in need over the years – us included – so -once again, marshall those wonderful forces to focus on your recovery
Alexis Singer and Brian Nichols
Dear Beny, Janet and I send you our best wishes for a full and speedy return to health. You and your family occupy a special place in our hearts — you were and are THE chazzan who moved, inspired, taught me so much that I hold dear today. It is your chazzanut that accompanies me. Heartfelt greetings from us both to you and your whole family, Janet and Mark
Beny, Hope and family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Stay strong. We love you both and wish you a Refuah Shlema.
Wishing you better health as you face these difficult days ahead. Our thoughts are with you.
May you be blessed with better health as you face the difficult days ahead. Our thoughts are with you.
Dear Cantor,
We were shocked to hear the news about your health, but we know you have thousands of prayers coming your way . We add ours from CT.
Love,
Roberta and Rich Sol
Dearest Beny – your strength and spirit have supported so many of us. Now we can repay the favour.. Know that we are thinking of you and keeping you in our prayers.
We send you all strength for this journey you are embarking on.
Dearest Beny,
Through these past decades you have taught & inspired me through the gift of your voice, your immense knowledge & indomitable energy & spirit.
We are with you, Hope and the family. during this stressful time. You are in our thoughts & prayers.
Love,
Eva & Philip Fleishman
Dear Beny and Hope,
Just a note to say my thoughts and prayers are with you. I always think of the good times I had singing in the choir and special trips with you at Zamir in the summers.
I wish you strength to fight your battle.
Fondly,Syrelle
Dear Cantor Maissner: I am so sorry to hear that you are ill. I wish you a speedy recovery and a return to health.
Dear Beny, we are so sorry for this news. We are thinking of you and keeping you in our hearts and prayers, and wishing you a refu’ah sh’leimah.
With love, Judy and Elliott
Wishing you a speedy recovery. All the best. The Fine family.
Dear Cantor Maissner,
Your voice continues to ring in our ears – melodic, impassioned and clear. We wish you and your family every strength and comfort in facing your illness – and we thank you for everything you have done.
Nancy Epstein, David Goldbloom, Daniel Goldbloom, Will Goldbloom
To my much beloved friend and source of joy, Cantor Maissner.
Beny,
You have been with me from me from my earliest years of Jewish practice and you were right there at my side in the rehabilitation clinics. Your presence has been an incredible gift. You have left profound gift to me and I thank you for sharing your life’s blessing with me. You will always be heard in my heart and prayers.
You will always be with me.
With all of my heart,
– Max
Dear Beny and Hope
We know that your strength and that of your family will guide you through this difficult time. We send you our love and support and best wishes for a return to good health.
Fondly
Gerald & Judy
Dear Cantor Maissner – I am so sorry to hear this news but wish you a complete recovery. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers
Dear Beny. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this challenging time! Wishing you a strong recovery. The Bertoia Family
Dear Beny,
You know how much you have always meant to our family. So sorry to learn of your illness.
We’ve been blessed At HBT all these years. You.
A handsome Cantor with the most beautiful voice. Who shares his extensive musical knowledge with us and who even rode a motorcycle!,!
Lots of good Beny Maissner memories
Sending love to you and Hope and A Refuah shlema
Dear Beny, Hope and Family,
We just want you to know that you are in our thoughts every single day. You are one of the strongest people that we know, and we have no doubt that your courage and resilience will help you to go through this challenge.
Keep fighting, our dear friend! You have been a spiritual role model all your life. You are not alone in this journey. Wishing you strength, healing, and all the love in the world.
With all our hearts,
Vlad and Olga
Dear Beny,
We’re so very sorry to hear this upsetting news that you’re ill. We are thinking of you and including you in our Mi-She-bayrach prayers for a return to good health. We wish you strength and positive thoughts in your journey to recovery. We are here for you, Hope, and your family to support in any way you need.
Love,
Esther and Mel
Dear Beny and Hope. So sorry to hear your news. Please know that I will be thinking only positive thoughts about your treatment and recovery.
Dear Beny and Hope Maissner,
We wish you and your family tremendous courage and strength in facing this illness. We are grateful to you, Beny, for the important part you have played in the lives of our family, and we pray that you will be returned to much better health.
Bob and Barbara Hodes
Dear Beny and Hope,
You both are in our thoughts , often, but especially at this challenging time. We join the whole HBT community, as well as your friends and colleagues all over the world, in sending best wishes and prayers for a Refuah Shleima .
Frances and Paul
Beny,
You have been our family’s Cantor since you first arrived at Holy Blossom, and as such, you hold a special place in our hearts. We pray for your speedy return to good health and strength.
Morris & Esther, Jess and Andrea and their families
Dear Beny and Hope Maissner,
We wish you and your family tremendous courage and strength in facing this illness. We are grateful to you, Beny, for the important part you have played in the lives of our family, and we pray that you will be returned to much better health.
Bob and Barbara Hodes
Cantor Maissner and Hope,
Our Mom would have been the first person to have expressed concern and to send you all our best wishes through this new journey. In the tough times ahead, please be comforted by the love of your family and the very warmest of wishes from mine. Carol Wolfson
Dearest Beny & Hope,
I’m very sorry to hear about your health challenge.
Being a survivor myself, I know it takes courage, strength and love from your family and community.
Beny, you have so many who love and admire you and will continue to do so. I’m one of your biggest fans!
It is with heartfelt prayers and sincere wishes I send you positive vibes now and throughout your journey. Try to stay positive and find your inner warrior to fight this battle.
Wishing you a speedy recovery and healing!
Much love,
debbi & Bobby Moses
Dear Chazzan Maissner, I remember watching you in awe at Thursday shacharit services. You just picked up the Torah and rolled it closed over your head! In mid-air! You are VERY strong both physically and mentally. Wishing you much luck.
Fondly, Susan Mogil
Dear Beny and Hope, You are both in our hearts as you navigate this arduous health challenge. We are praying for good news, and wish you strength and courage in the days ahead.
Love, Jane and Rob Herman
Dearest Beny – We are so sorry to hear this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you face this challenging illness. Your incredible musical gift has enriched our lives and that of the whole HBT congregation. May you take comfort from your close-knit family – your incredible partner Hope and your wonderful children and grandchildren.
Sending love.
Lesley & Ron
Dear Beny and Hope,
We are very sorry to hear your news. We wish you strength, courage and comfort as you face the difficult journey of treatment. Beny, your dedicated support and friendship to my parents in the last years of their lives brought them (and us) so much comfort. You are truly a pillar of the Holy Blossom community and a cantorial treasure! We hope you will find many reasons to smile in the coming days.
Laura Wolfson and Tish Byrne
Dear Beny and Hope,
We are so sorry to hear of your medical challenges, but know you are a fighter and wish you strength, comfort and a strong recovery. You have been an integral part of our lives as far back as we can remember, and your kindness and friendship mean the world to us.
Wishing you only the best, with love,
The Howard Family
Dear Cantor Maissner
We were so sorry to hear of your illness. We wish you a complete recovery.
May you continue to bring joy to the Congregation with your presence at services.
Seymour and Gloria Temkin
Dear Cantor Beny & Hope,
We are holding you in our hearts and prayers. May the One who blessed our Avot v’Imahot, bless you with refuah shleyma. May your soul and voice continue to sing G-d’s praise for years to come. With gratitude and love,
Cheryl & Robert, Aaron, Nathan
Dear Cantor and family. I am holding you in my prayers. You were such a source of strength when my father Louis Devor passed away last year and I wish you all the strength in fighting this disease. I listen to your beautiful songs online which bring back such wonderful memories of your time and my family’s time at HBT. Sending love – Cheryl Devor
The Tartick family send there strength and there prayers to the Maissner family
Dear Cantor Maissner and Family. you have played such an important role in the lives of the Alter/Rothschild Families from readying our three children for their torah portions to weekly visits at Baycrest to comfort our Father Buddy Rothschild.Your visits lifted his spirits and he so looked forward to talking to you about his service as a pilot in the RAF and RCAF. The two of you had a remarkable relationship and it gave us comfort seeing you there relating to him. We can never thank you enough for your selfless efforts. We pray you have a speedy recovery from illness . You are an incredible human being.
Dear Beny,
You were a strong supporter of Temma’s creativity and work, and provided me much comfort when she passed. I hope my Mi Sheberach prayer, said daily with “fervour and gusto” (as Michael Cole would say), can begin to match your great kindness. I wish you and Hope strength.
Paul Kay
I’ve known Beny, not just as a cantor for Holy Blossom, but as a champion of Jewish music for the entire world. There are hundreds if not thousands of composers who owe their professional careers because you strove constantly to champion their works. i know how hard it was for you to do these things and the world is a better place because of it. We all look forward to a swift and full recovery and more of the wonderful music that you have shared with us over the decades.
Dear Cantor Beny and your family,
Sending prayers and positive thoughts your way for renewed strength and recovery.
Karen and Bob Willinsky
Dear Beny,
Our thoughts go out to you as you battle cancer. You have always been a mighty warrier with every venture you have undertaken. Together with Hope, your family, and your beloved community, you will wage a valiant war. Please know that we are there to support you in any fashion – a Lachan sing-a-long?
We wish you a refuah shlemah.
With love,
Denise, Dennis, Jonathan and Chloe Gordon-Chow
Dear Cantor Maissner
As you battle this horrific disease,please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Your enjoyable services at the temple are in our memories and have made you an icon to always remember.We pray for you to have a full recovery.
Dear Cantor Maissner.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you fight this horrific disease.The memories that we have of your wonderful services make you an icon in our thoughts.
We wish you a full and easy recovery.
My beloved and dear dear Uncle דוד בני. We love you dearly. Noam and Naama are asking about you. And we are praying for your good health. Be strong, דוד בני היקר, דודה הופ הילדים והנכדים. הרבה בריאות והחלמה מהירה. אתם במחשבות ובתפילות שלנו. תהייה חזק . אתה אדם אמיץ וטוב לב. אוהבים מאוד. נועם , נעמה ומיכל
שולחים דש מישראל המדינה האהובה עלייך.
Dear Beny,,
We are so very sorry to hear you are not well. You’ve been a wonderful cantor, teacher, leader, trip organizer, tour guide and friend through all cycles of life. We came to Friday night Shabbat services specially to hear your happy beautiful music and to sing with you. We miss you. You made it fun for our children to learn Thank you for that.We wish you , Hope and your family much strength to meet the challenges ahead. Sending support, love and and prayers.
Bob,, Jan, Dean and Natalie
Dearest Beny and family,
We have been travelling for several weeks and received the unsettling news fro HBT. We send you much love and strength and hugs across the miles. You are strong and a fighter and with HaShem’s help you will beat this too ! We are rooting for you and praying for you, and at the services on ship will say a misha berech. 💙
Love,
Karen and David
Cantor Beny,
We were thinking about you last week during a Zoom Friday night service. We were upset to learn that you have been unwell. We wish you a speedy recovery from your current illness.
Beny, Clearly, I’m much too detached from my old HB family. I had no idea you were facing this. Your strength and spirit are so strong that they have always overflowed to the rest of us. I hope you can take some of it back now and feel your community behind you. Wishing you refuah sh’leimah and sending much love.
Dear Cantor Maissner and Hope,
Prayers for a complete healing and a full recovery, minimum of pain and being surrounded with love from your family and your congregational family.
Judy Adler Lotin and Henry Lotin
Dear Beny. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this challenging time. Wishing you a strong recovery.
The Bertoia Family
Dear Beny,
My thoughts and prayers are with your family as you face this challenge. I remember the first day you and your family arrived at Holy Blossom and we have been the beneficiary of your exceptional talent ever since.
Susanne Egier
Dear Beny and Hope
May you have the strength to deal with your treatment plan. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Good luck!
Elaine
Dear Beny,
We are so sorry to hear you are unwell.
You have been an important and inspiring link to our spiritual life…for years.
We listen to your CD’s and speak often of our shared journeys to Poland and Germany.
The beautiful sounds of the traditional music you brought to Holy Blossom are always in our hearts.
We wish you and your family strength and comfort..
Fran and Bernie Goldman
So sorry to hear this news. Wishing you strength and courage for your journey.
Dear Beny,
May you have a smooth and speedy recovery.
You have much to be proud of.
Dear Beny,
As we were with you when you came, so are with you now in your illness. We wish you well and offer our assistance in any way.
Robert & Marlene.
Dear Beny,
You taught me to chant my parsha in Hebrew, with vigor!, at my adult bat mitzvah. You taught Claudia, Richard, Charles, and Sofia, with your tender lessons full of love for children. Your voice is the one we continue to hear, no matter who a new cantor anywhere is, because your voice has the special beauty of your depth of feeling and life experience. You’re such a fine man and we’re sorry you and your family are in pain right now.
Dear Beny and Hope,
We just wanted to let you know that we are thinking about you, as you are facing challenging days. Many people care about you, as do I and Viviane.
This journey is not easy, but if there’s anyone who can fight through this with spirit, it’s you.
Sending you wishes for Refuah Shlema.
Dear Beny and Hope,
We are thinking of you and wishing you strength, courage, and comfort.
Fondly,
Julie, Larry, Jonathan and Jordanna Schwartz
Dear Beny and Hope,
We were so sorry to hear of Beny’s health challenges. We wish you and your family strength and courage as you embark on your journey to Beny’s recovery and return to good health. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Marlene, Laura and Richard
Dear Beny and Hope,
I am so sorry to hear about your health challenges. As my cousin Debbi has said above, it takes courage, strength and love from your family and community. You are loved by all of us and your community will rally with our prayers and be there to hold you up in the journey that lies ahead. I wish you all the best for a full recovery!
Dear Beny,
We are heartbroken to hear about your diagnosis. You mean so much to our community, and your strength, warmth, and kindness have always inspired us. Please know that you are deeply loved, valued, and surrounded by people who care tremendously. We’re all here to support you every step of the way. Sending you heartfelt thoughts, courage, and endless hope as you navigate this difficult journey.
Ruth Morayniss and Leland Harris
Beny:
I was so sorry to hear the distressing news of your illness. I had anticipated that we would be singing together at the next RCCC concert in Vancouver in May. You will be with us in spirit as we, your cantorial colleagues, raise our voices together in song. Please know that you are in my thoughts, and I send you love and strength on the difficult journey ahead.
Tara Abrams
Beny, Hope and family,
Wishing you strength in the challenge ahead.
I will be thinking of you.
Sondra Kay
Dear Beny,
My Judaism doesn’t exist without your voice. Without your energy. Without your smile.
Sending you and your family strength during this challenging time.
The Diamond family is grateful to you, and we love you.
Cantor Maissner….a great deal of our identity as a Jew, and that of our sons, has come from your heart, soul, inspiration and your music. There is no question that you are one of the musical leaders of the Jewish world. Your creativity, your musical genius, your ability to combine your incredible voice with that of your fellow musicians and singers has inspired us, and brought us closer, as only music can do, to what is holy and special. Your are Cantor Maissner. There is no other! Thank you for all that you are, all you have done for us and many others and sending strength and love during this difficult time to you, and to your loving family.
Dear Beny and Hope, My thoughts are with you on the tough road ahead. May all the love and support that surrounds you, sustain you to see this through with positive results.
Loretta
Dear Cantor Maissner, learning about Judaism in the 90’s at Holy Blossom, with you, was a spectacular time. Your voice, musical talents and ability to connect with us was astonishing. When I noticed you came and went on a motorcycle I nearly fell over in awe! My cantor is the coolest, I thought. Your voice is eternal and I will pray for your health and wellness. Love, Sarah
Dear Beny and Hope,
We want to wish Beny you a speedy recovery and good health
Warmly
Paula and Alan
Dear Cantor Maissner
Wishing you a speedy recovery and and good health in the future
Dear Beny and Hope:
For decades your knowledge and interpretations of liturgical music have been the soul of Holy B., even during times of political strife that you always rose above. You have shown so much strength and youthfulness that we know you will rise to the challenges ahead. We wish you a refuah sh’leima!
Dear Beny,
We wish you a speedy and complete recovery, and are sending love and strength to you.
Ronna & Phil
Dear Cantor Maissner,
You are in our prayers.
My vision of you is on your motorcycle.
Stay strong, get well.
Mark and Susan Sager
and family
Dear Cantor Maissner,
Sending healing thoughts and prayers your way for a speedy recovery. ❤️🙏
Dear Beny,
How much beauty you have added to our spiritual lives with song, as well as introducing us to a musical world heretofore unknown!
There is an inscription over the exterior chapel doors that speaks of the “Beauty of Holiness”. That is certainly true, but you have caused. us to see also the “Holiness of Beauty” – something a small group of HBT students, Charles Pachter, Allan Gordon and myself, learned at a Reform Arts camp in the Berkshires some 65 years ago. YOU are the embodiments of both ideals!
Continue on your journey knowing how we all treasure and love you.
Virginia Solomon
Dear Cantor Maissner,
We wish you strength and a full recovery.
Your chanting of the prayers–your Kol Nidre is especially memorable, but also many others (your Shalom Rav is a favourite of ours)–, your leadership, and the warmth of your personality have been an inspiration to us and the whole Holy Blossom congregation.
Ron and Elisabeth Saunders
Dear dear Beny,
You have been so kind and compassionate during all of our health problems and life’s struggles. Your music has enlivened and supported us always. We think of you now, and Hope too, and pray for your recovery. With love, Cynthia and Dan
Dear Beny and family,
We are sorry to hear you are facing this health challenge.
Your kindness, warmth and beautiful voice always created a special experience for us over the years and we were fortunate to have you sing at both our sons’ Bar Mitzvahs.
We are thinking of you at this time and wish you all the best in your road to recovery.
Howard Rosenberg and Rhonda Rovan
Dear Cantor Beny
I am so sorry you are going through this difficult challenge. I wish you well and healing. I just wanted you to know how you meaningfully touched my life, and I am sure many others. I never quite appreciated the role of the cantor, until I found that your cantorial prowess brought me that spiritual connection in prayer that was otherwise missing. Thanks for that. No small thing. We were lucky to have you all these years.
Charles Cass
Dear Beny &. Hope
We were sorry to hear of your medical challenges. You have always met challenges head on and with strength. May you continue to do so. We are thinking of you at this difficult time. You are in our prayers.
Warmly
Janie & Frank
Dear Beny and Hope,
On behalf of my whole family, I am sending you strength and support as you navigate this health challenge. Beny, your voice and presence have been woven into so many pivotal moments in my life. My late mother, Jill z”l, cherished her special relationship with you over the years, and our home was always filled with your music—first on tapes, then CDs—guiding us through the festivals and, most especially, on Shabbat.
Your voice and spirit have brought comfort and meaning to so many. Now, I hope you feel that same comfort reflected back to you from all those whose lives you have touched. Wishing you a refuah shlema, and may your healing be swift and filled with meaning.
With deep appreciation and warmest wishes,
Ben Hertzman
Dear Cantor Beny
My thoughts and best wishes for you and your family. May you have a speedy recovery.
Sheila Zane
Beny,
Janice, Eitan, Ami and I are praying for רפואה שלמה.
I cherish all of the times I would pop into your office to ask you an obscure question about liturgy or Jewish music. I think only one question stumped you, but for me you called some other experts. I am filled with pride that I got to work with the Beny Maissner. I know you will fight this with all of your Israeli ruach.
Love,
Michael
Beny, Hope, Children, Grandchildren,
Your friendship and gifted spiritual leadership as our Cantor were an integral part of our lives at HBT. We wish you and your dear ones strength and comfort during the challenging days ahead. We will always remember you reaching out to Manny z”l. Refuah Shlema.
Dear Cantor Maissner and Family
I am sorry to hear that you are battling cancer. Please know that you have impacted my life -I have been fortunate to appreciate, enjoy, and be comforted as you led us in prayer and song. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort and strength in each day.
We often think of you, Beny, out here in the Canadian Hinterlands – you are an icon of Jewish music in our country! So sorry to hear of your health challenges.. Wishing you a refuah shlemah.
So sorry to hear of your health challenges, Beny. Wishing you a refuah shemah.
Dear Cantor Ben & Family, We so appreciate all you have done and continue to do for the community, elevating our experiences with your special voice and music. You are in our thoughts, hearts and prayers for healing. Thank you for being a wonderful mentor and teacher. Wishing you and your family blessings. Much love, gratitude and admiration, Mark & the Weinstock family
Dear Beny,
I will pray for your refua shleima, of body and soul and wisdom of your health care team and strength for those nearest to you.
Warmly,
Deborah
Beny, I remember being wowed by your voice at your very first Holy Blossom service. I could feel your passion for prayer. The awe that I felt then strengthened each time I heard you sing, and then over the years I came to know the true mensch that went with the voice. You have been a leader in every way showing us the way to live a joyful Jewish life. From the bima, your eyes connect with the congregation and have always made me feel like it didn’t matter what I sounded like — you exude joy when you see us joining you. You have connected with all the members of my family in unique ways, and made a difference in our lives. I hope you can hear the music in your head, and that it lifts your spirit and gives you strength in your healing journey. To Hope, Tal, Rivka and Shira and your beautiful grands…know that there’s a massive village out here with open arms , and shoulders to lean on.
Beny,
Cancer picked the wrong person to mess with—you’re stronger, tougher, and way more stubborn! If cancer knew who it was dealing with, it would’ve packed its bags already!
Be very well and optimistic our Dear Friend!
With alot of hugs and love!
Vlad and Olga
Dear Beny, Hope and Family
Many of us have been there and understand something of what you are facing. But ,Beny, you will fight this battle like the warrior you are and emerge victorious. Then your army of supporters will say “Beny Maissner l’chaim”. Wishing you a speedy and full recovery.
Dearest Beny and Hope:
I am sorry to hear that you are going through this. My thoughts and prayers will be with you throughout your journey.
Dear, dear, dear Beny and Hope,
We’ve already said, but we can’t say it too many times. You are in our thoughts always. Sending you love and strength and our heartfelt wishes for a Refuah shlema for you, Beny.
With all our love,
Ruth Ellen and Shelly and our entire family
I am sending you so much love and strength…you have always been a dear friend and colleague and I cherish you. I have added you to my prayers.
Refuah Shlaymah!
Hazzan Alisa Pomerantz-Boro xo
To our dear friends, Beny and Hope,
Wishing you a speedy recovery . R’fuah Sh’leima. Thinking of you with much affection and love.
Dear Beny,
We want to wish you a refuah schleima! Jack & Helene
Dear Beny,
May you know good health again. You’re a very strong man and I know you will fight hard. Besides Hope & your kids, you have the whole congregation praying for your complete recovery. Love, Robin
I just heard the distressing news about Beny’s declining health. He was one of the first cantors who i studied with to become a chazzan. Although he was very strict i learned a lot from him., Beny you are such a pillar to this Toronto Jewish community and to the world in terms of Chazzanut and music. I pray that you will be beat this horrible disease. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in these difficult times.
To you and Hope and your family and friends
I wish you a refuah shelmah. Speedily recovery.
Chodesh Tov and Shabbat Shalom
your friend
Cantor Ben Sharpe
Dear Beny –
Deborah, Max and I continue to think of you – and wish for your r’fuah sh’laima. You are very special to us! You continue to make a difference in our lives, and the lives all who are blessed to know you.
B, D and M
Beny, your news hit me hard: that you were not well and I hope that you do not feel pain, and that the music stays strong in your head to warm your soul as you go through this. Thank you for the excellent leadership in Lachan and for your presence at so many Shabbat services that made me feel a connection as an infrequent attendee. I send you hugs and the knowledge of your huge legacy. With love, Estee
Dear Beny,
We just want you to know that you are not alone in this journey. You are strong, courageous, and deeply loved. We believe in your strength to face them head-on.
Keep fighting, keep believing, and remember that we are here for you every step of the way. Wishing you comfort, hope, and a full recovery. Sending you all our love and positive energy!
Vlad and Olga
Shabbat Shalom Beny, Hope and family!
We are thinking of all of you as you all deal with Beny’s health issues. We look forward to seeing you back with us, whenever you can. May it be soon!.
Phyllis and Jeff Denaburg
Sending hugs prayers and love to the one and only Beny! Refuah Shleimah/ strength, hope, healing and recovery! Shabbat Shalom and much love
We wanted to reach out and let you know that we are thinking of you. Your voice and spirit has brought so much warmth and joy to our community, and I hope you’re feeling that same support coming back to you now.
Wishing you strength and healing in the days ahead.
Warmly, Debbie Katzman and Bob Zipursky
Dear Beny,
Your strength, musical talent and positive spirit have inspired our family for many decades. Today we join many others in prayer for your continued recovery. “Together we Sing”.
Sending love to you, Hope and your beloved family.
Cantor Maisner/Beny, With the speed of an eagle, the strength Lion, And the miracles of the Maccabbees,
Sending you all of these, Erin Claman
Dear Cantor Maissner,
I am so sorry to hear that you are battling cancer. You are in my thoughts, prayers and songs as you meet this health challenge with your usual determination. You have been the victor in other health challenges and have the love and support of your full congregation as you and your family embark on your treatment journey. Wishing you strength, courage and a refuah shlemah.
Fondly, Barbara Grossman
Dear Cantor, You have brought us so much joy throughout the years with your beautiful music which was the highlight of all our services:, We pray for your full recovery. Francie&Stuart Klein
Dear Beny,
I will be praying for you, hoping for a full recovery. May God be with you.
With much love,
Janice Kerkkamp
Dear Beny, Hope and Family
We are hopeful that your courage, strength and support from all who love you Beny, will help to guide you through this difficult time!
Wishing you a refuah sh’leima!
All our love, Sharon & Shelley 🎶
Dear Beny, Hope and family
We wish you strength and you are in our prayers.
Wishing you a full recovery
Annie and Michael
Dear Beny,
We just want you to know again that you are in our thoughts and heart every day. You are incredibly strong, and we admire your courage in facing this challenge. No matter what, you are never alone
Keep holding onto hope, keep fighting, and remember that brighter days are ahead. Sending you love, strength, and all the positivity in the world!”
With love and support,
Vlad and Olga
Best wishes for a speedy recovery. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this challenging time.
Harriette Laing
Dear Beny and Hope. The Temple Choir and our time together in Israel during my 50th year have been so meaningful to me over the years. Paul and I wish you courage and strength in your battle with cancer.
Fondly, Barbara & Paul Soren
Dear Beny ,we are thinking of you and praying for a complete refua shelemah .
with love and friendship Alex and Yvonne Klein .
We also send wishes from the executive and members of the European Cantors Association who all love and respect tour wise council and great knowledge
with love from your ECA family around the world.
Dearest Beny,
I am keeping you in my prayers and sending you healing thoughts from New Orleans. Through the years you have always been a huge support to so many, including me and your bf, Mike z”l. You have many, many people who love you and Hope and the amazing family you have created together and we are pulling for you. Please know we all love and support you and pray for your complete recovery. Sending love and strength, Rebecca
Dear Beny and Hope,
Karen joins me in praying for a Refuah Shleymah. May you be blessed with courage and strength as you face this diagnosis. You have been an inspiration to many as you have walked this path with many congregants.
Dear Beny, I am so sorry to hear that you are facing these health issues. I wish you a full and speedy recovery. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending love and support to you and Hope.
Sheila
Dear Beny, Your scholarship and mentorship have meant the world to me ever since our semester in Israel together in the spring of 2006. You showed me the rich and diverse world of music for a Jewish wedding in coaching for a practicum on Jewish weddings. With care and patience, you shared your passion for the craft and life of a chazzan. I have been grateful we have become friends and colleagues in the years since. Wishing you a swift רפואה שלימה so you may continue to share your light and music with the world.
Dear Beny,
So sorry to hear about your illness. Our prayers are with you and your loved ones.
Our thoughts continue to be with you.
Dear Beny,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We hope you are receiving the best care available to help you through this challenging time.
Wishing you refuah shleimah vemeheirah,
Lilian, Miriam, Yael & Greg
Hi Beny:
I always cherish our time together over the years. I will be keeping you in my prayers for a R’fuah Sh’leimah.
Best to Hope and the family,
David
Dear Beny,
You spoke with me everyday during David’s operation and for many, many days thereafter. Please know that I shall be thinking of you everyday and praying for your refuah sh’lemah.
Warmest regards-
Susan
Dear Beny,
We are so very sad to learn about your serious illness. Susan and I recall the remarkable support, compassion, and encouragement you provided us both throughout my life-saving surgery and recovery. Since our move to Toronto in 1983, you became an important part of our life at HBT. The spirituality of your music and the depth of our conversations brought special meaning to us. We wish you refu’ah sh’leimah and look forward to seeing you back among your congregation. Our prayers and love for you, Hope, and your family.
David & Susan
Praying for your strength and healing
Thinking of you Beny and sending prayers for strength and healing!
Dear Cantor Maissner,
Our family is sorry to hear of your recent illness. Wishing you a refu’ah sh’leimah as well as strength to you and your family as you walk the road ahead. We will keep you in our prayers. Henny Rappaport and Michael Burns
Dear Beny,
You are one of my first mentors. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this challenging time. May you find the strength through the love and support of your Holy Blossom Community and the Toronto Jewish Community at large for whom you have made such a profound musical impact. Refuah shleimah. Cantor Sidney Ezer
Thinking of all the good times my family enjoyed with you. So many family memories involve you…your warmth , your music.
We wish you strength to fight this illness and enjoy more of the good things life has to offer.
Dear Beny,
We at Beth Tzedec send our prayers for a Refuah Shelaymah. Your impact on the community extends well beyond Holy Blossom. We join them in wishing your family the strength to address your health.
With Berachah,
Reb Steve and BTz
Dear Beny,
One of the most incredible times of my life was going to China with Lachan. I will always remember singing on the top of the Great Wall of China. I wish you strength as you fight this illness.
Joel Troster
Dear Beny,
Susan and I are sorry to hear about your illness.
We have enjoyed your decades at Holy Blossom and cherish the memories of your cantorial music at Holy Blossom services . We have all of your recordings and cherish them. We send you our wishes and prayers for a complete recovery.
Dear Beny,
We are so saddened to hear you are facing this health challenge. Andrew, Sabrina, Cole, Kyra and I are thinking of you. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Sending love and strength,
Lara Pulver Brodkin
Beny…..we were saddened to hear about your illness….we hope and pray for a speedy recovery…..you have been such an important part of our spiritual life at Holy Blossom.. We hold a special place in our hearts for you…..Wayne and Marlene Pulver
Dear Beny,
As long standing members of HBT we remember our services before you came. You shared your vast knowledge of Jewish music ancient and modern. You changed our congregation from passive listeners to enthusiastic participants.. We have been inspired by your voice and energy. You brought some non-traditional instruments and international influences .You have added another dimension to our prayers. You have lifted us up especially at the Nila service at Yom Kippur. We continue to hear you in our minds days after.
Thank you for enriching our worship and our Jewish lives.
Dear Beny & Hope We are deeply saddened to hear of your diagnosis. When Miriam was being treated for multiple myeloma your many phone calls to her then and your good wishes were so uplifting and supportive. We now extend our good wishes to you . We wish you courage, strength and a good outcome. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Hazzan, I now hold you in my prayers, as you did for me. I know good health is coming for you. My husband David joins me in wishing you refuah shlemah. – Karen Splansky Farbman
Dear Beny,
Maurice and I are so sorry to hear about your devestating news. We are joining the many people praying for your r’fuah shlemah and for strenghth for all of you and your family during the trying times of treatment.
much love,
Kathy & Maurice
Beny,
Refuah shleima. I pray that all the songs you’ve sung and prayers you have prayed over decades and decades will continue to resound in the heavens and all the connections you’ve built and the love and commitment you’ve inspired will be a source of strength and love in this moment. I am keeping you in my prayers.
Much love
Felicia
Dear Beny and Hope,
We are hoping, praying and rooting for you, Beny, to meet successfully this latest challenge. May God add strength and courage to you to achieve the mythical age of 120. “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” We say the “Mi Shebeirakh” prayer for you every Shabbat. Sending you love,
Don and Greta Lee Splansky
Dear Beny and Hope. We never know what life has in store for us. All we can do is live each day as best we can Earl, my family and I loved your presence in shul. You brought us peace, spirituality when you sang. Thank you!
Good luck!
Love Pauline
Dearest Beny,
Your קול נעים has inspired so many too numerous to count. The phrase “life is not measured by the number of breaths one takes but by those moments that take one’s breath away,” certainly resonates with your Cantorial career. Additionally, know that you nourished a very special relationship with my father-in-law Rabbi Erwin Schild (ע”ה) Whenever your name came up in conversation a smile radiated that expressed the rabbi’s great affection for you.
Personally I want to express my תודה רבה to you for introducing me to Angela of blessed memory and to both Gwyneth and Vinnie.-relationships that have transformed the art of singing bel canto..
Both Judith and I wish you a רפואה שלמה. Each day I will include you in my תפילות for healing-רפואת הנפש ורפואת הגוף.
Moshe and Judith
Dear Cantor Maissner,
You were my cantor at Germantown Jewish Center in Philadelphia years ago, and even trained me for my Bat Mitzvah! I’m in my 60’s now, and still think of your kindness, energy, enthusiasm , connection, sense of humor and magnificent voice. ( I bet I still have a cassette recording of the Torah trope that you taught me!)
Seeing your photo and hearing your voice brings back many warm memories for me. Wishing you refuah shelemah, and thinking of you.
Audrey Caplin (daughter of Herb and Evelyn Caplin)
Dear Beny,
You have alway given everything to this community and the Holy Blossom family, so please know that as you take on this fight, you have the support and love of the entire community in return. We all wish you a Refuah shleima, and the strength and patience the days ahead will require.
Sending you love and support from all of us,
Evan, Tammy, MAizie and Gideon
Dear Beny,
I have known you since you came to Holy Blossom all those many years ago. You presided at our wedding soon after. Josephine and I have always been inspired by your music. I fondly remember sharing pulpit duties with you for several years on Yom Kippur afternoon. I was awed by your strength and endurance throughout a very long day. Those qualities of strength and endurance will serve you well in your road to recovery. Josephine and I wish you a refuah shleimah. Our thoughts are wish you, and we look forward to seeing you in shul once again returned to full health.
Michael and Josephine Cole
Dear Hazzan Beny,
Shabbat Shalom. Ad meah v’esrim. HaShem is watching over you with grace and love for you dear Beny. Your heart is big and Hope is there to support you, as all all of us who love you. Wishing you a sweet Shabbos. -Karen Splansky Farbman
Dear Beny
You have warmed our hearts and brought us joy with your magnificent voice
for so many years. We are very saddened to hear of your illness and pray
to Hashem for a complete recovery.
Much Love
Carole & Bernie Zucker
Beny,
I want you to think back to the time that we were hoping to undertake the Renewal project at Holy Blossom. There were many obstacles but we we were pushing to get it done. I remember very well that you had a very important discussion with me. You told me that you knew we would be successful in building our dream and that you had full confidence in me to get it done. This chat had a profound effect on me and gave me the confidence to keep on pushing. Beny, now it is my turn to tell you that I have full confidence in you that you will overcome this difficult time and once again do all the many things that you still have to accomplish. Lisa and I wish you only the best for a truly speedy recovery.
Dear Hazzan Beny and Hope, wishing you a Chag Purim Sameach. I am glad that you received my card. Wishing you a freilach Purim with your children and grandchildren. I can hear your voice chanting Megillat Esther. You have a soothing voice for this cantillation. May you rejoice this Purim . Layehudim Hayta Ora, v’simcha, v’sasson, veyikar. Beny you are like Mordechai- a great man among the Jews and popular with many of your breathren (colleagues, congregants, friends), seeking good for your people and promoting the welfare of their descendants. We are thinking of you at this Purim holiday. Love Karen (Splansky) and David Farbman. Cheering for you Beny.
Beny. I was so sorry to hear of your cancer. I have so many wonderful memories of our earlier years particularly when I was involved with the Purim Spiels and earlier the Chanukah Plays. You were very supportive and always a great sport. Thinking of you and your family as you go through your treatments.
Dear Beny,
We are all very saddened to learn of your illness. I have always maintained that you have 9 lives and you haven’t used them all yet! You have been an integral part of our family’s lives for over 30 years and I pray for many more to come.
All our love as we wish you a refuah shleimah,
Sara and Rick, Adam, Andrew and Laura Charney and Patty Rubin
Dear Beny,
my thoughts are with you. You are in my prayers every day.
Refuah shleimah.
Peter L Weinwurm
Dear Beny
Gary and I send you and Hope our love and support as you face your health challenges head on.
I have a special memory, that I will always cherish , from the trip to Israel with you for Israel’s 60th anniversary in 2008. We were in Jordan, on May 11, walking along the passage to visit the caves of Petra and you had everyone stop. You then proceeded to sing “Happy Birthday” to me and the acoustics from the high sided passageway magnified your beautiful voice in the most exquisite way!
Wishing you and your family a Happy Passover.
Much love
Gary & Janis
Dear Beny,
I was very sorry to learn about your illness. I wish you strength and a speedy and complete recovery. You are very much in my thoughts.
Dear Hazzan,
We wish you mo’adim l’simcha. I’m sure your Seders were filled with song and family. I can hear your voice leading Hallel from all the chagim we spent at Holy Blossom. Regards to Hope. Karen Splansky Farbman.
Dear Cantor Maissner,
Thinking of you and wishing you a full recovery. Best wishes for a better year ahead. Happy birthday.
Marlon, Erin, Taylor and Ariella Paisley
Dear Cantor Maissner,
I’m very sorry to hear that you are going through such difficult times. As you go through this, please know that our hearts are with you. Certainly, you are blessed to have congregants, family and friends who care so much about you. It is no effort to sing your praises. Hopefully you will find solace in this. My mother Beryl Chernin who passed away in December of 2023 would definitely have sent you a note of comfort and so I do it on her behalf. For many years she sang in Holy Blossom’s weekend choir. It gave her such satisfaction and delight to be a part of this Union of Voices which according to her you were extremely adept at managing.
When my father Solomon Chernin passed away, you were there at the graveside singing with her as we all looked on. Her grief seemed to disappear in those moments and I will never forget your kindness in bringing that bit of joy into her life during such a sad time.
You are an inspiration to many and I thank you for being such an important part of my mother’s life.
Dear Beny,
I moved to Toronto in the summer of 2019 and joined Holy Blossom a few months later. Even though I had no history with you, it was nice that you made the time to chat with me during the kiddish following Shabbat Services. I attended some of your special presentations, and also heard your magnificent voice and was awed by your knowledge, humour and singing. Am thinking of you and your family. Hugs. Ruth Gilis Noel
Dear Cantor Maissner,
Our entire family wishes you a refuah shlemah. You, Hope and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We all of such fond memories of your incredible voice and contagious positive spirit that infused Holy Blossom for so many decades, and it is so special to me that you were the cantor at my Bat Mitzvah, and then many years later, for my children.
Wishing you successful treatment, and may you return to good health soon!
With love,
Leslie & Darren Richmond, and Samantha, Ethan, Benjamin, Madeline & Brooklyn
Dear Wonderful Cantor Beny,
You have always been there for us, in times of prayer, celebration and mournful sadness. Your brilliant and inspirational music in combination with your warmth, kindness and intelligence set the highest standard of professionalism at Holy Blossom. Your contribution to our lives in all these ways continues to be appreciated by our family – Taiga, Jack and David each send their heartfelt warm regards and best wishes to you. Together we share memories of your inspirational singing of ‘Eitz chayim’.
“It is a tree of life for those who hold fast to it, and those who uphold it are happy.”
Beny, we thank you for holding the tree of life so high for us all. For making prayer so joyous.
We wish you a speedy return to strength and good health. Chadesh yameinu k’kedem.
Dear Cantor Maissner,
Thank you for instilling in me a love of Jewish music and prayer. I look back fondly on those Fridays nights at HBT singing in the children’s choir – something I looked forward to every week. I always enjoyed listening to the sound of your warm and rich voice and on the High Holidays, I would always try to figure out where you would be. More recently, I was so grateful that you could officiate at my wedding – and to connect me back to my childhood love of Jewish song and prayer. How fortunate am I.
With gratitude,
Chloe
Dear Beny, Hope and family,
We remember our first lunch.together when I served gazpacho, and you told me you don’t eat tomatoes! Just get better ,and we’ll have a tomato-less lunch to celebrate your return to good health. You have provided our congregation with so much beauty and joy! We know your family will come through this with strength! Xoxo Marlene Ruderman.
Dearest Beny,
I send this note with so much love and appreciation for all the years of musical beauty you brought to my life. We’ve lost touch, but I will never forget your kindness when we lost our dear Michael.
I know you will be strong through this trying time and my thoughts are deeply with you. Sending love from Gary, Wendy, and me!
Jane
Dear Beny,
I miss you with my whole heart, your music makes my heart glow with love. I pray a few times a day that you grow strong in spirit, love and physical strength. I pray that you may sit back and hum or sing your beautiful music that even can move the trees, sky, flower to glow with joy as you touch the souls of of those around you. I even miss your silent present’s as you walk by me.
Temple is just not as bright with you not there. I am sure that even the angels cry when you are not around us.
Get well soon,
Shoshana
Dear Cantor Maissner;
We are so sorry to learn that you are going through very challenging times with respect to your health. We pray for a positive outcome. You have been a source of strength to us especially when we lost to our parents and now may you have the inner strength to deal with your own issues.
Fondly,
Bonnie and Sheldon Hoppe
Dear Cantor Maissner,
We wish you a full and fast recovery. You have been an important part in our family’s life, from being under the chuppah with us and Rabbi Marmur, to leading each of our four daughters to become Bat Mitzvah. You have uplifted and inspired us and our congregation for decades. We are thinking of you and your family and sending you gratitude and wishes for strength during this difficult time.
Janet and Norman Shiner and Family
Dear Cantor Maissner,
I hope you truly realize how “instrumental” you have been to SO many as the Temple Cantor over the many decades, including, the quiet long-time congregants, like myself, who would just get lost in the magnificent music that you so gorgeously sang – always a feast for the ears – thank you SO much. I can honestly say that you have been one of my most significant musical influences and I thank you so much for the soul-moving and incredibly rich music that you exquisitely provided during the many, many Temple services.
Thoughts are with you and sending lots of well wishes and Holiday good wishes.
Sincerely,
Lynn Loftus Glazer
All our very best wishes for a return to good health to our fabulous cantor and Bar/Bat Mitzvah teacher! Our highlight every Yom Kippur was always your Avinu Malkeinu, and even Barbra Streisand never came close with her recording! 🙂
Joni and Eric Eisenberg and family
Dear Cantor Maissner,
Some of our family’s most cherished memories at Holy Blossom are tied to your beautiful, captivating voice filling the main sanctuary, the Eisendrath before it became the Mishkan, and the third-floor sanctuary where you led us so gracefully at our eldest’s baby naming in 2004. Your presence and your music have always been such a gift to our community.
How truly fortunate we are to have you as a leader—your warmth, energy, and passion create a space where we can come together in prayer, singing with you, and lifting our voices in unison, connecting deeply to the prayers of our ancestors.
Please know that our whole family is holding you close in our hearts right now, praying for your full and speedy recovery.
With much love and support,
Sondra, Amanda, Ash, and Amelia
Dearest Beny, we are so grateful for the inspiration of your exquisite musical prayers, for your wise teaching, and for your friendship. We wish you and Hope strength during your treatment, and a full recovery. We miss you and love you both.
Dearest Beny, we’re thinking of you and wishing you refuah shleyma um’heyra, especially now that we are approaching Yom haatzmaut, since you are an integral part of Israel. All the very best to you and your entire family. With love, Dalia & Jack Alalouf
Dear Beny: We are so sorry to hear of your illness. When we joined Holy Blossom in the mid nineteen eighties it was your voice that convinced us to become members. Your voice and that of the choir continues to resonate in our heads and our hearts. Wishing you strength and a full recovery. We hope to see you back in Shul soon.
Carole and Howie Gelfand
Dear Beny,
Over the last few months we have missed your warm presence at temple. For us, your influence is ever present in the way that music continues to take center stage at Holy Blossom both in services and concert events, under Cantor Rosen. We deeply appreciate your role in training others, and of course recognize your mentorship of Lindi Rivers, our wonderful cantorial soloist.
Ron and I wish for you and Hope much strength in your battle with cancer. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
While there are many reasons to thank you for your devoted years of service to the Holy Blossom Temple congregation, I have three personal reasons that are especially meaningful to me.
First I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to lead services as a layperson. This experience has brought me immense joy and allowed me to participate more deeply in the spiritual life of our community. It is a gift I will always treasure.
Second, I am so grateful for your presence at my daughter Jaimie’s wedding in 2014. The celebration took place at Camp Robin Hood- no easy place to get to – and yet you made the journey. Your participation, and especially your beautiful voice, added to much to the joy and sanctity of the day. We were all touched by your presence.
Third, I want to thank you for the many services I attended where your voice uplifted and inspired. Your enthusiasm and the beauty of your melodies created a spiritual atmosphere that will stay with me always. The joy you brought to your singing was truly infectious!
I continue to keep you in my prayers for a full and speedy recovery.
Marlene Orenbach
Dear Beny
A little story about how you encouraged me some years ago.
I was practicing to chant the special verses from Deuteronomy chanted on Shabbat Zachor. It was my first time to chant these verses and I had practiced many hours . Then came the day before when I had to chant for you to make sure I was ready. I was very nervous Beny .I will admit that chanting in front of you was a challenge. We met in the youth chapel. I had an idea about how I wanted to chant these verses but I was timid in my initial chanting. You looked at me with your amazing eyes so kind and caring and asked ” are you nervous around me” “why”???? I replied Beny you are over 6 ft tall. an amazing Cantor. teacher and presence and you are Israeli. You advised me to chant like I was ” reading a newspaper” with emphasis on “very important pieces.” So I took a breath and changed how I thought the verses should be delivered…loud and strong.Despite my Hebrew laced with an Irish accent you were very pleased with me. I chant the same verses yearly on Shabbat Zachor and you are always standing by my side in my mind .
Beny thank you for all your love and encouragement to me and thousands of others over many years. Your presence in my Jewish life fills me with gratitude and love.
Thinking of you and praying for you daily.
Love Gerry
Hi Beny,
Just a quick note to say Happy Birthday- you’re a bullish Taurus, just like me and Dennis! So stubborn, so creative, so loyal.
So harness all of these attributes to keep your spirits high and fiesty as best you can.
Love you!
Denise, Dennis, Chloe and Jonathan
Dear dear Beny,
I know we have posted already, and Dan misses you at United, but I wanted to reflect on my own important experiences with you. You were a major reason I kept returning to services and ultimately joined Holy Blossom. The first time I heard your voice, I was moved to tears, and I thought “People get to hear this every week?!” Your faith and your talent shine with every note you sing. All of these tributes show how important you are to this community, as a whole and to each individual. Love, Cynthia
Dear Beny
On behalf of my wife Susie Ungar and our whole family , we send you all our love and strength at this time.
You have been such an inspiration and have brought so much joy to our family , as well as to so many others over your many years as Cantor at Holy Blossom.
Please know that you are literally in our thoughts every day .
With love
Ed Hussman and Susie Ungar
Dear Beny
I’m wishing you a very happy birthday and my heartfelt wishes to you for a full recovery. I know that having treatment is difficult. You are blessed with a wonderful family to support you. My prayers are with you. Biz a hundert un tsvantsik!! Thinking of you and Hope…..
Bambi
Happy Birthday Beny—you are a very SPECIAL person
in every way. Thank you for all you did for me and my family.
Ann Shendroff and family
Dearest Beny, with love for your birthday and prayers for your healing from two of your earliest and biggest fans—me and Baruch. Remembering your kindness and hospitality and your whole family’s warmth to me when I first came— and you were the first to know about Baruch! Love you very much, dear friend!
Dear Hazzan Beny, Each Shabbat and Chag I recite a misheberach prayer for you. May the time not be distant that I can take your name off the list. I thought of you over Shavuot when we sang Hallel. I always enjoy your joyful Hallel. HaShem is granting wisdom to your health care team, I hope you are not suffering pain or nausea. With dear Hope by your side you can enjoy time with children and grandchildren. David joins me in wishing you a refuah shlema. Love, Karen Splansky Farbman