Violins of Hope

Exhibition

May 3 - June 16

10:00am to 5:00pm Daily

Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre

Violins of Hope is an exhibition of historic instruments that survived World War II. Although the violins come from different backgrounds, they are tied through the singular history of the persecution of European Jews and the Holocaust. Each violin reminds us of the light, hope, and peace that music can bring into even the darkest moments. Purchase tickets here.

Concert with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Wednesday, May 15

7:30pm | Jack Singer Concert Hall

Join us for an unforgettable musical journey from Holocaust to hope, at a unique concert where restored instruments once belonging to Jewish victims of the Holocaust, come to life through stories of injustice, suffering, resilience, and survival. Wherever there was music, there was hope. Purchase tickets here.

Socalled with Strings

Sunday, May 26

7:30pm | Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre

Montreal-based Socalled fuses hip hop with Klezmer with a collection of Yiddish songs. Joined by an all Jewish string quartet that hail from New York, Toronto, and Ottawa. The project debuted in Hamburg and has presented in Venice, London, New York, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Paris, and now Calgary! Purchase tickets here.

Film Screening

Wednesday, May 29

7:00 - 9:00pm | Patricia A. Whelan Performance Hall, Central Library

Join us for a special screening of Orchestra of Exiles – the suspenseful chronicle of how one man helped save Europe's premier Jewish musicians from obliteration by the Nazis during World War II. In three years, Bronislaw Huberman transformed from a world-renowned violinist to a humanitarian racing against time. Register for free here.

Lenka Lichtenberg's "The Secret Poetress of Terezin"

Sunday, June 2

7:30pm | Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre

Join Juno award winning singer-songwriter Lenka Lictenberg who is accompanied by Jewish husband and wife team, Drew Jurecka and Rebekah Wolkstein, on the violin and viola. The concert includes video and photographic footage, and is based on poems that Lenka unearthed that were written by her grandmother while she was imprisoned at Terezin. Purchase tickets here.

Shalom Baby

May 8 & 22

12:30pm | Paperny Family JCC

Join us with your baby/infant (under 2) for coffee and nosh as we discuss the joys and oys of parenting. Registration is no longer required! We look forward to seeing you! Email Sydney Truax or call 403-537-8592 for more information.

Birthright Onward Volunteer Opportunity

Register by Thursday, May 9

Calling Alberta's Jewish community ages 20 to 40! Secure your spot for an unforgettable journey, between June 17 and 24, with Birthright Israel Onward. From transportation to cozy stays in Tel Aviv, plus a $100 stipend for incredible Israeli food, and engaging sessions exploring Israel's history since October 7, every detail is thoughtfully arranged. Immerse yourself in the spirit of giving back by volunteering in Israel to help the country thrive. Don't miss out on this life-changing experience! Click here to register by May 9!

Tot Shabbat

Friday, May 17

10:00am | Paperny Family JCC

Celebrate Shabbat with PJ Library® and join us for an interactive half-hour of songs, stories, and brachot (blessings). Registration is no longer required. We look forward to seeing you! For more information email Sydney Truax or call 403-537-8592.

L'Dor V’Dor – From my Kitchen to Yours

Sunday, May 19

10:00am - 12:00pm | Paperny Family JCC

Calling all grandparents (or grandpals) and grandchildren! Join PJ Library, PJ Our Way®, and the Paperny Family JCC Golden Age department for this special multi-generational event! Please bring a few of your favourite recipes. You will work as a family to create 1 to 2 pages for a cookbook. Each family will receive one complimentary cookbook. Register here and email Sydney Truax or email Nessie Hollander for more information.

PJ Goes to Preschool at the JCC

Friday, May 24

9:00am - 11:00am | Paperny Family JCC

Join us at the Paperny Family JCC for a fun Shabbat morning with our preschool friends! Register here or email Sydney Truax or call her at 403-537-8592 for more information.

Book Club

Thursday, May 9

3:00 - 4:30pm | Paperny Family JCC

Join Douglas Century, New York Times best selling author at our next Book Club meeting as we engage in a preliminary discussion of The Maid by Nita Prose. We will come together again on Thursday, May 23 to discuss the book in its entirety. Please register for free by Tuesday, May 7 at the JCC Customer Service Desk or call 403-253-8600 x0. 

Golden Age Luncheon

Tuesday, May 14

11:45am - 2:00pm | Paperny Family JCC

A lovely way to spend an afternoon with friends in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a home-cooked meal and wonderful entertainment by Romel and Danielle. Member $7 and public $10. Register at the Customer Service Desk at 403-253-8600 x0 by Wednesday, May 8. Sponsored in part by Lenny and Faigel Shapiro.

Yom HaAtzmaut: Israel's Independence Day

Tuesday, May 14

5:30pm | Paperny Family JCC

Join us as we celebrate Israel's 76th birthday with music, food, and fun activities for all ages! Israeli-themed food will be available for purchase from Karen's Café. For more information about this free event, email Yanina Rabinovich or call 403-537-8596. Please register for the following free activities: Register here for the Milk & Honey Whisky Tasting. Register here for the Krav Maga session from 6:30 to 6:50pm. Register here for the Krav Maga session from 6:55 to 7:15pm.

Thursday Night Live

Thursday, May 9

6:30 - 9:00pm | Beth Tzedec Congregation

Looking for a thrilling way to kickstart your weekends early? Look no further than Thursday Night Live – the ultimate open mic experience that's set to transform your Thursdays into unforgettable nights of entertainment. Join us monthly at Beth Tzedec for a dynamic showcase of local talent like you’ve never seen before. Click here to register.

Family Shabbat Dinner

Friday, May 10

5:30 - 8:00pm | Beth Tzedec Congregation

Share the fun of Shabbat with your friends and community at our monthly Family Shabbat Dinner! Join us at 5:30pm for an interactive Shabbat-inspired program with singing, games, and stories for all ages. Then we'll share a delicious kosher dinner from the Beth Tzedec kitchen. Click here to register.

2024 JNF Calgary Negev Event

Thursday, May 9

6:30pm VIP Event, 7:30pm Program | Temple B'nai Tikvah

Help us raise funds to rebuild and renew Kibbutz Kissufim! Be inspired and uplifted by Israeli-American Actor and Activist Yuval David. Registration and donations at JNFCalgary.ca, email, 403-255-0295 x1. Email Elliott Steinberg or call 403-255-0297 about advertising and sponsorships.

JNF Missions to Israel

You can help Israelis at this difficult time by doing manual labour, packing food for those in need, and preparing kibbutzim for the return of residents. Come hear from security experts and meet people directly impacted by the war. Contact Elliott Steinberg at 403-255-0297, email, or visit our website. More trips are being planned.

Spring/Summer 2024 Monthly Drop-in Caregiver Discussions Groups 

Ogden 50+ Activity Centre (SE) | Friday May 10|10:30-11:30am

Oak Park Church (SW) | Tuesday May 14|10:30-11:30am

Calgary JCC (SW) | Thursday May 30| 1:00-2:00pm

Note – new Oak Park Church location. Facilitated by a registered social worker from JFSC's Caregiver Support Program, this is a space for caregivers of seniors and/or persons living with dementia to exchange caregiving and coping strategies and resources. For more information, spring dates, and locations, click here. There is no charge for these groups. Pre-Registration is required – please call 403-287-3510.

Yuval David – Actor and Activist

Friday, May 10

7:30pm | Temple B’nai Tikvah

As part of Temple B’nai Tikvah’s Friday evening services, come hear Israeli-American Emmy Award-winning actor Yuval David talk about the intersection of his identities as an activist for both Jewish and LGBTQ issues on the global stage.

2024 Norman Ronald Silver Sports Leadership Award Nominations

Deadline for nominations: Friday, May 10

The Norman Ronald Silver Sports Leadership Award is presented to 'an athlete who exemplifies the true meaning of team spirit and sportsmanship by serving as a leader and role model for others'. The recipient will be presented with a personal plaque, a $100 honorarium, and an award plaque displayed at the Paperny Family JCC. For more information email Brenda Sapoznikow, Foundation Manager or call 403-640-2273.

Casino Volunteers needed for the JCFC Casino

July 23 and 24

Lots of positions available, sign-up early to get your preferred choice. Please email Brenda Sapoznikow or call 403-640-2273. 

Yom HaZikaron - Israel's Memorial Day

Sunday, May 12

7:00pm | Temple B'nai Tikvah

Come together as a community to commemorate and memorialize IDF soldiers who have perished in the line of duty and victims of terror. A heartfelt ceremony along with prayers, readings, and music, with a special commemoration for the victims of the October 7 attacks. Register here for this free event.

Hazak Lunch, Learn, and Love

Wednesday, May 15

12:00 - 2:00pm | Beth Tzedec Congregation

Join Laura Shuler and her JHSSA troubadours as they share songs and stories of love for this lunch-time presentation. Lunch is $15 for BT members and $20 for the public. There is no fee to register for the program if not attending the lunch (please arrive by 12:30pm).

Register by May 13 (scroll down to find registration form).

Rabbi Ginsburg

Thursday, May 16

6:30pm | Central Public Library

During his tenure in Calgary, Rabbi Lewis Ginsburg was not only a beloved religious figure for the local Jewish community, but also a much sought-after speaker, avid sportsman, and active volunteer. Join JHSSA and presenter Saundra Lipton, to explore the life and legacy of Rabbi Ginsburg. Hosted by Calgary Public Library.

Please register for this free program. If you don't have a library card, email JHSSA.

The Jewish History of Farming

Tuesday, May 21

6:30pm | Central Public Library

From the Canadian prairies to the Argentine Pampas, discover the history and wider context of the Jewish farming experience with presenter Irena Karshenbaum. Hosted by Calgary Public Library and JHSSA. Please register for this free program. If you don’t have a library card, email JHSSA.

The Leonard & Faigel Shapiro Community Playground Grand Opening and Lag B'Omer Family Celebration

Sunday, May 26

3:00pm | Chabad of Alberta, 134 Forge Road SE

Free admission, food for purchase, ribbon cutting, donor recognition, dignitaries, BBQ dinner, carnival games, unicycle juggling show, petting zoo, cotton candy, and more! To RSVP and for playground sponsorship opportunities, please click here.

The History of Zionism in Calgary

Wednesday, May 29

7:00pm | Temple B’nai Tikvah

Celebrate Canadian Jewish Heritage month with Temple B’nai Tikvah and JHSSA. Join Harry Sanders as he traces the long history of Calgary's connections to the Zionist Movement. Registration not required.

CMDA Annual Event - Save the Date

Sunday, June 2

6:00pm | Carriage House Hotel & Conference Center

Don't miss an opportunity to help us celebrate our donors, volunteers, supporters, and MDA workers with an Israeli kosher dinner. Thank you for supporting the life saving efforts of MDA in Israel. Purchase tickets here. For more information email Sharon Fraiman, Western Region Director or call 587-435-5808.

AGM for House of Jacob Mikveh Israel

Tuesday, June 18

Time TBA | HOJMI

Join us for HOJMI's AGM, a pivotal gathering where we come together to reflect on our past achievements, engage in constructive dialogue about future endeavours, and honour the resilience of our community. Together, we will chart the course for another year of impactful service and unity. Make sure to mark your calendars and be an integral part of shaping our collective journey forward.

Daf Yomi with Rabbi Andrews

Every Day

Mornings | HOJMI

Join us for Daf Yomi sessions led by Rabbi Andrews at HOJMI. Dive into the depths of Talmudic wisdom every weekday morning following Shacharit, and an hour before Mincha on Shabbat. Explore ancient texts and enrich your understanding of Jewish tradition with our vibrant community.

Chovos Halevavos with the Kollel

Thursdays

8:00pm | Zoom

Delve into the depths of Jewish thought with Rabbi Safren in our weekly Kollel session focusing on Chovos Halevavos. Explore the teachings of this classic work and gain valuable insights into spiritual

growth and mindfulness. Join us for an enriching journey every Thursday evening on Zoom.

Chevra Kadisha of Calgary Job Listing

The Chevra Kadisha of Calgary is looking to fill the following position of Shomer Backup. This position entails attendance at the chapel when there is a deceased present. The successful candidate(s) will be backup to the primary Shomer when they are away or unable to provide service. This is an on-call position with irregular hours. Further details of the position including remuneration will be provided upon receipt of a resume or expression of interest. Skill in reading Hebrew is preferred but not a requirement. Please apply by email.