Rabbinic Reflection: Rabbi Eliza McCarroll & Rabbi Taylor Baruchel

In the Talmud, we are taught that “even greater than the reception of God is the practice of hospitality.”

Put differently, so important is it in our tradition to welcome one another, to host one another graciously, to open our hearts and homes and be kind to one another, that we, as our ancestor Abraham does, are permitted to put our conversations with God on hold in service of our guests.

My, oh my, did we see this mitzvah of hachnasat orchim (welcoming of newcomers) on full display in our congregation this past Shabbat,

Our Shabbat of Welcome celebrated all that makes Holy Blossom so special. From flowing conversations of our “Welcome Wine & Cheese” to the first joyous notes of our super musical Kabbalat Shabbat and the magical glow of our Pyjama Havdalah Party for our young families, the spirit of connection and community was everywhere.

Over 300 people joined us for Kabbalat Shabbat, filling the Sanctuary with song, laughter, and heartfelt blessings. It was a night where every person—new members and long-standing friends alike—felt the warmth of belonging. Many have asked if Friday night is always like this. The answer is, while we do not always feature a tended bar ahead of services, our Kabbalat Shabbat is always that meaningful and that musical. If you haven’t joined us, come and see for yourself! On Saturday evening, our Schwartz/Reisman Atrium came alive with children in cozy pyjamas, and families gathered together for the sweetness of Havdalah rituals. My 4-year-old, Selah, even declared that Pyjama Havdalah is her favourite holiday!

Of course, as there is ALWAYS something awesome going on at Holy Blossom, please be sure not to miss Gifts of Light on December 8, or our next Family Shabbat on December 7!  AND Chanukah will be here before we know it, with details of our upcoming celebrations HERE. All these are amazing opportunities to connect with your fellow Holy Blossomites.

Our Shabbat of Welcome reminded us of the beautiful truth: at every age and every stage, life blossoms here. We are so grateful to Marilynne and Joseph Cass for their generosity, which made the Shabbat of Welcome possible. Their support allowed us to extend our arms wider, offering not just welcome but genuine connection and joy to everyone who walked through our doors. You can see the photos from these special events HERE (Wine & Cheese) and HERE (Pyjama Havdallah).

We are simply blown away by how our congregation came together, no matter if you just joined Holy Blossom or have been here your whole life, to make new friends and reconnect with others you might have known for a long time. It was beautiful to share in the realization that we are part of one thriving, vibrant and inclusive kehila kedosha, sacred community.

Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Here’s to carrying the spirit of welcome into all the weeks ahead, as we continue to celebrate, grow, and blossom together.