Sholom Shishim (Seniors)

Sholom Shishim is a dedicated group for seniors aged sixty plus within Temple Sholom. This group provides a warm and welcoming environment where seniors can connect, engage in meaningful activities, and explore their Jewish heritage together.

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Social Gatherings: Regular events such as Lunch & Learn, Game Afternoons, and cultural outings that foster camaraderie, and build strong friendships among members.

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Jewish Learning: Study sessions, lectures, and discussions on Jewish history, culture, and spirituality, offering opportunities for lifelong learning and intellectual enrichment.

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Holiday Celebrations: Special programs for Jewish holidays, including festive meals, services, and cultural activities that allow members to celebrate traditions together.

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Community Service: Opportunities for seniors to engage in volunteer work and Mitzvah projects, contributing their time and skills to benefit the wider community.

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Seniors’ Support Rabbi: Rabbi Sally Finestone

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It is our pleasure to warmly welcome Rabbi Sally Finestone to our Pastoral Care Support Team at Temple Sholom. In this non-pulpit, part-time role, Rabbi Finestone will work alongside our clergy to support the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of our senior members and their families—especially during times of transition, grief, or vulnerability. She will also serve as a valued member of our school faculty.

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Cantor Shani Cohen will continue to lead and direct our Sholom Shishim program. The role of the Senior Support Rabbi is pastoral, not programmatic.

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This new position has been made possible through the generous support of the Michael Jacobson Seniors’ Support Worker Fund, created by Estelle Jacobson in loving memory of her husband, Michael z”l. Michael’s legacy is one of deep compassion, civic responsibility, and devoted care for the well-being of our elders. We are honoured to carry forward his vision in this sacred work.

At Temple Sholom, we see relationship and community as a sacred trust and guiding mission. We are committed to the flourishing of all members, and we hold a special responsibility to care for our elders—those who built this congregation and who are cherished in our tradition and our hearts.

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Rabbi Sally Finestone is a highly respected and accomplished Reform rabbi. Raised in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, she earned her undergraduate degree at Duke University and received her rabbinic ordination from Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, becoming the 11th woman in Jewish history to be ordained as a rabbi. She also holds a Master’s in Hebrew Literature and an honorary doctorate from HUC-JIR, as well as a Master’s in Theology from Harvard Divinity School.

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As Temple Sholom’s Seniors’ Support Rabbi, Rabbi Finestone will:

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• Conduct home and hospital visits to assess and support the health, safety, and well-being of senior members. Our Klay Kodesh will continue to be the primary point of contact for hospital visits and lifecycle support. Rabbi Finestone will supplement our efforts and provide follow on supports.
• Offer wellness check-ins (in person, by phone, text, or email) to strengthen our connection with seniors and their families.
• Serve as a resource for seniors and their loved ones navigating the aging process and accessing available congregational and community services.
• Support families in creating end-of-life plans and advance directives, facilitating intentional conversations about aging and preparation.
• Consult with Temple Sholom clergy regarding the pastoral needs and evolving circumstances of our senior members.

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You can reach Rabbi Finestone at rabbifinestone@templesholom.ca or by calling the Temple Sholom office at 604.266.7190.