TORONTO — Nefesh HaChayim, a minyan launched last fall, is set to hold High Holiday services for the first time.
Michelle Katz, 55, founder of Nefesh HaChayim, said that since November, the minyan has been meeting twice a month in members’ homes.
Passionate about both intellectual Jewish study, and Jewish spiritual direction and Torah Yoga, Katz said the minyan started “in her head” as a way to bridge her two worlds.
“One of my greatest joys has been to shul-hop in Jerusalem. I love the intimate congregations, which study, daven and sing together. They have the warm, friendly congregations I longed to have in Toronto,” said Katz, who is originally from South Africa.
“Finally, after I finished a master’s degree in theology, the timing seemed right. I needed another project to take on, and I was inspired to take this project out into the community.”
She brought together people from “all her worlds,” she said, and began meeting for Shabbat morning services. “We started off with 65 people, but have settled into 35 to 50 people regularly.”
The minyan starts with Torah study, which then leads into davening, she said.
“It is a unique combination of a traditional service with spirited song, soulful prayers, serious learning, and a spirituality that bridges Jews of all ages across the religious spectrum.”
Eventually, she said, people started asking about High Holiday services. “It wasn’t on the original agenda, but I was inspired.”
The Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services, led by Rabbi Adina Lewittes, the first Canadian women ordained at the Jewish Theological Seminary, are open to the community.
They will be held at the Workmen’s Circle building on Lawrence Avenue, east of Bathurst Street.
“The services are geared for people who are looking for serious, intellectual study, a traditional service, and spirited music. We’ll have lots of singing, prayer, and a lot of participation.”
The services are open to people of all ages, and a program for small children will be provided.
For more information, e-mail [email protected] or call 905-760-9472.
