LESLIE
I arrived in Vancouver as a bride, November 1960. My connection to Judaism came mainly from my grandmother, Baba Singer.

She was ultra-Orthodox and visiting her every summer since childhood gave me a strong connection to my faith. Upon returning to Los Angeles after these visits I would go to a Reform “Sunday School” that was the extent of it. My home was not the least bit traditional. In fact, my mother’s favourite recipe was baked ham with pineapple rings.

Needless to say arriving in Vancouver and moving into Sadie and Jack Diamond’s home was shocking for them as well as me. My mother in law kept kosher I would mix stuff up on a regular basis. I knew very little about keeping a Jewish home. BUT I did have a strong belief of my heritage through Bella Singer.

The first Rosh Hashanah was an eye opener for me. Sitting at Sadie’s evening Rosh Hashanah dinner table was beautiful and fulfilling, going to services, buying a new outfit and hat to match was the beginning of a long tradition. Rabbi Goldenberg was the Rabbi in those days and was very tolerant of my ignorance. Like going up to him and giving him a hug. I was a quick learner and came into my own under the leadership of Rabbi Hier. I became Sisterhood President, put on huge Farmers Markets and with Isabelle and Valerie Diamond helped with the High Holiday Guide which is still being used. Looking around the Synagogue today is comforting, so much is the same.

The ghosts of yesterday are all there as well as children, crying babies, Women forgetting to whisper and many new generations of members. Thank you to Jonathon and Rabbi Rosenblatt for making all of us welcome no matter how observant we are. It is comforting to know that my children, grandchildren, and now great grandchildren will find the same warmth and connection for years to come.