The Community Today
Today, 90 to 95 percent of Jews in the Owen Sound area are paying members of the synagogue. New families are being drawn to the region because of the quality of Jewish life. The Local Regional Health Centre has included a visit to the synagogue as part of their strategy in recruiting Jewish healthcare professionals.
The stained glass windows, egalitarian prayer book and successful “Rhythm and Jews” fundraiser, among other initiatives, have instilled a sense of confidence. National and local media stories praising the community’s spunk and values have also provided a boost. The “L’Chaim” exhibit at the Grey Roots Museum and Archives has raised Beth Ezekiel’s profile in the region. There has also been a religious revival underway at Beth Ezekiel in recent years. Regular services every few weeks have been re-instituted for the first time in 40 years. A professional story-teller and founder of Jewish Storytelling Arts, Leslie Robbins-Conway, teaches the children in the cheder and is very popular with them. She also runs a well attended adult education program, which seeks to re-introduce Owen Sound’s Jews to religious rituals and observances that have been forgotten due to years away from religious life. Some members have expressed interest in a trip to Israel. These kinds of activities are important for a healthy, functioning Jewish community. The surprise is that they are happening in a place where Jewish life was almost extinguished just a decade ago.
One secret of the community’s renewal is its philosophy of inclusiveness. It was difficult for traditionally Orthodox members to accept changes like counting women for a minyan. However, a commitment to preserving and renewing the congregation won out and the community compromised. Non-Jewish spouses are welcomed and made to feel at home. Even atheists are invited to enjoy the experience of bonding with fellow Jews. They derive confidence from seeing past efforts succeed and pleasure from initiating new ones. As the late Mike Rabovsky stated, “We dance to our own tune.”
"It's Their Time Now"
Ruth Gorbet speaks about the rejuvenation of the Jewish community of Owen Sound and the transfer of responsibility to the next generation.
Interview with Ruth Gorbet, 13 June 2007, Sharon Gubbay Helfer. OJA, Oral History #295
