May God bless our Comings and our Goings

From Rabbi Yael Splansky and Temple President, Avra Rosen

One of the impacts of the pandemic, across all industries, is employment transitions.  It is true in Jewish communal work and it is true for Holy Blossom Temple.  In the past two years, we have seen many changes among our team of professionals, across departments.

In the past, Rabbis and Cantors would often sacrifice living in the same city as extended family for the sake of their congregational commitments.  Across North America, many are now relocating for the sake of family.  So it is for us. Cantor Rosen came to Toronto to be with family.  Rabbi Helfman moved to London, England to be with family.  Rabbi Kaye is coming to Toronto to be with family (https://holyblossom.org/announcing-rabbi-samuel-kaye/) And soon Rabbi Goodman will be leaving for Cincinnati, Ohio to be with family.

This opportunity came up unexpectedly for Rabbi Goodman.  A special position opened and, with our blessing, less than two weeks later the match was made.  We will miss Rabbi Goodman and the many talents he has brought and continues to bring to strengthen the Holy Blossom community.  At the same time, we are happy for Rabbi Goodman, Katie, Abe, and their little one on the way.  They will be reunited with family and friends after nearly two years without much opportunity for safe travel.

The very capable Rabbinic Search Committee, which made a successful match with Rabbi Kaye last week, is now back to work.  They have interviews lined up for this Sunday and are hopeful that in the coming weeks, we can make another good shidduch in time for a summer start.

Thank you for your ongoing support and please join us now in wishing Rabbi Goodman a Mazel Tov.

From Rabbi Zachary Goodman

It is with bitter-sweet emotion that I share with you my family’s plans to return to Cincinnati this summer. I have recently accepted a position as the Associate Rabbi at Isaac M. Wise Temple; the congregation where Katie and I were married and in close proximity to family. This process moved incredibly quickly and so I apologize to my friends and community members that I was unable to reach before this announcement reaches your inboxes. There is so much work to be done before we say goodbye and please know that I am eager to continue this sacred work with you.

Over the past few years, I have considered myself incredibly lucky to call Holy Blossom my community and Toronto my home. It has been a true honour to learn from Rabbi Splansky and to begin my rabbinate with her leadership and mentorship. I have learned deeply, fostered meaningful relationships, and have felt the warm embrace of this community – even through a pandemic. Thank you all for embracing me and my family and for teaching me so much during our time together.