Tuesday Night Learning

Shaar Voices: Stories That Inspire

In October, 2025, we hosted an unforgettable evening with four extraordinary Shaar members — all Recipients of the Order of Canada — whose vision and lifelong service have shaped our community and nation.

Aldo Bensadoun — Founder of the ALDO Group and leading philanthropist with a global vision.

Marvin Corber — Former senior partner at Richter and key figure in community fundraising.

Dorothy Reitman — Advocate for women’s rights and first female president of the Canadian Jewish Congress.

Bernard Shapiro — Former McGill Principal and influential voice in education and ethics.

The event was moderated by Barbara Kay, National Post columnist known for her sharp insight and engaging commentary.

Click below to see photos from the event.

100 Years of the Shaar in Westmount – The Digital Exhibit

Congregation Shaar Hashomayim’s Museum & Archives hosted a session on the digital exhibit 100 Years of the Shaar in Westmount. Through archival photographs, documents, recordings, and more, archivist Hannah Srour-Zackon explored highlights from the exhibit which showcased the rich history of the Shaar over the past century.

Scott Sternthal, author of ‘A Violet Light’, was in conversation with Cantor Gideon Zelermyer.

After a fatal accident, a young artist named Adrian finds himself seated at a table with an esteemed guide: the Montreal legend, Leonard Cohen. Together, over the course of a long meal at an idyllic bistro, the dead artists reflect on the meaning of their lives—the struggle to love, the pursuit of fame, and the pleasure of friendship.