Security Update

Holy Blossom Temple Security Update

March 7, 2026

This Shabbat was full and joyous.

Some came, davka (specifically), because Israelis couldn’t go to their synagogues or had to turn their shelters into make-shift synagogues. Some came, davka, because of the recent gunfire at local synagogues. They wanted to show the haters and themselves that they would not cower or hide. And some came, davka, because they longed for the spiritual uplift that comes from our prayers, for being anchored by the ancient wisdom of Torah, for the stability that comes from simply being together with fellow Jews, for instilling in their children and grandchildren the love of Shabbat.

Gratitude

We wish to thank Toronto Police and Division 13 for their swift and constant attention. They are making their presence very well-known in the neighbourhood. When you see them in our parking lots and around town, please make a point of thanking them. We pray for the day when we won’t need them, but until then, we are grateful for their service.

We wish to thank the Jewish Security Network, which provides timely and helpful communications, like this Community Security Update from UJA, so we can do our part in putting our own security protocols into place.

We thank our own Holy Blossom team of professionals and volunteer leadership for showing up again and again to do what is needed to keep our congregants and guests safe. At UJA’s community briefing, it was encouraged for anyone interested in community safety and security to consider signing up for the JSN’s Community Watch Synagogue training session. New dates are coming soon. Please visit: https://www.jewishtoronto.com/jsn for more details.

Security Updates

This past Wednesday, in our “On the Horizon” e-newsletter, a Security Update was shared. On top of the additional measures put in place, we have received confirmation from the Toronto Police that a paid duty officer will be at Temple tomorrow (Sunday, March 8). We have requested Paid Duty officers for the next two weeks. We will continually assess the situation. We are in direct communications with Inspector Benoit of Division 13, with the Jewish Security Network, with our own Security Committee of experts at Temple, and more.

We will continue to advocate on behalf of Holy Blossom and the entire Jewish community. Rabbi Splansky is reaching out to our representatives at all levels of government to demand more, to demand better. This week, our city and our country have crossed a threshold, where we have to question if our basic religious freedoms, as enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, are being upheld and protected. Please read today’s Statement from Prime Minister Carney. Make your own voices heard. Consider the Action Items from CIJA and from our own Holy Blossom Temple Advocacy Committee, as noted in their most recent article.

Tonight’s Havdalah service included the words from the Megillah:

“For the Jews (of Mordechai and Esther’s time) there was light and happiness, joy and delight.” 

לַיְּהוּדִים הָיְתָה אוֹרָה וְשִׂמְחָה וְשָׂשֹׂן וִיקָר

And we respond in one loud and clear voice: “So may it be for us!” !כן תהיה לנו

Shavuah Tov.

May it be a good and peaceful week for us, for the Jewish People everywhere, and for all the world.

Security Update

March 5, 2026

UJA Community Briefing: Security Update with Toronto Police

In the wake of the shooting at Temple Emanu-El this week on Purim, join UJA Federation of Greater Toronto online Friday, March 6 at 11:00 am for an important briefing on community security with Toronto Police Deputy Chief Frank Barredo and Chief Superintendent Katherine Stephenson.

During the briefing, you will have the opportunity to submit questions.

This webinar will be moderated by Sara Lefton, Chief Development Officer, UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, and feature a security update from Jevon Greenblatt, Executive Director of the Jewish Security Network (JSN).

Learn more and register here

Holy Blossom Temple Security Update

March 4, 2026

At this time, our hearts are with our brothers and sisters in Israel, in Iran, and at Temple Emanu-El.  Toronto police reported that shortly after community members had left the synagogue’s Purim party late Monday night, Temple Emanu-El in North York was struck by gunfire. While no injuries were reported, the building sustained damage.

You will notice that this week there has been additional security here at Holy Blossom Temple – some is visible, some not visible (by design), and increased Toronto Police Patrols in the Holy Blossom Temple neighbourhood. Please note that we are in direct touch with and have significant support from both our Police Division (13), including the Inspector and Staff Sergeant, and Police across the city, including intelligence, the Jewish Security Network (JSN), and other local and national authorities, including elected officials. We are blessed to have a knowledgeable Security Committee Chair, Andrew Kirsch, and as well a very supportive Security Committee.

In addition to our usual security measures, you may encounter more uniformed security representatives, who may check bags (including purses and tallit bags) for specific events. Unless you have small children with you, please avoid bringing larger bags to Temple.

Security will continue to be assessed and invested in, constantly. Holy Blossom Temple continues to apply for funding opportunities from all levels of government as related to security. Please cooperate fully with our security and facilities teams, be patient, and leave extra time for entering the building. We are all partners in ensuring our Temple is safe and secure. Please be vigilant, especially when entering and exiting Temple. Do not allow those you don’t know to follow you into Temple and please be sure to check that exterior doors close behind you when you leave. As always, if you see something, say something.

As Vibrant and proud Jewish life continues to flourish at Holy Blossom every day of the week, the safety of our congregants, students, and those who work here is our first priority.