We hold a complex mix of emotions—grief, pride, hope, and gratitude as we prepare to welcome the peace and rest of Shabbat.

This week, we are heartbroken by the tragic terrorist attack in Boulder. Our hearts go out to all affected, and we stand in solidarity with the Jewish community there. We mourn and honour Judith Weinstein, whose body was returned to Israel by the courageous efforts of the IDF special forces after months of anguish. Her life and her commitment to peace will never be forgotten. 

Here in our own community, even amidst sorrow, we see life blooming with resilience and light. Our BBYO teens continue to step up into local leadership positions and, with the help of volunteer parents (including our own Tammy Vineberg) put on a very successful BBYO Bagels for Breakfast fundraiser for the fifth year. These young leaders are connecting over shared values and building friendships that will carry them forward. At the Genesis Edmonton art workshop taking place this Sunday for young adults, creativity will become a tool for bonding and self-expression. 

As graduations fill our calendars, we celebrate the bright futures of our students—future leaders shaped by Jewish values and a strong sense of identity. We’re proud to fund and operationalize Hillel for post-secondary, and that our allocations support initiatives such as Chromebooks for learning at Talmud Torah, bursaries for summer camps, and even Jewish Sportsball—efforts that make sure every child grows in community and confidence. 

Families will find joy and togetherness at PJ Library’s Popsicles in the Park this Sunday, and we’re looking ahead to the Shalom Baby Birthday Party, a sweet reminder that our community is always growing. We also mark a milestone: we are the first Canadian city to be accepted into a peer-based program to counter antisemitism in high schools, helping Jewish teens share their stories and build bridges of understanding. Contact Jenn Magalnick at magalj@edjfed.org if you want to know more about Student to Student and have a teenager in your life.

Through all of this, our mission is clear—ensuring that our youth stay connected to one another, to their heritage, and to a vibrant Jewish future. 

May this Shabbat bring us comfort, connection, and renewed purpose. 

Shabbat Shalom,

Stacey