A three-story Ark. Can you imagine it? That’s the centerpiece of the Albert and Temmy Latner Forest Hill Jewish Centre. This magnificent structure isn’t just a synagogue. It’s a testament to resilience. It’s a vibrant community hub. It stands proudly at 360 Spadina Road.
The Forest Hill Jewish Centre’s story is one of growth and remembrance. It began humbly. Fourteen years ago it was a small congregation. Today more than 200 families call it home. They’ve moved from a space above a Starbucks to this stunning new building. This impressive building represents more than just bricks and mortar.
The design is deeply symbolic. The exterior mirrors a Polish synagogue. This synagogue was tragically destroyed by the Nazis in 1939. The Forest Hill Jewish Centre’s architects chose this design intentionally. They wanted to honor the past while celebrating the future. It’s a powerful statement of Jewish continuity. It’s a powerful message of Am Yisrael Chai. The Jewish people live.
The interior is equally impressive. The three-story ark is a showstopper. It’s a replica of the ark from the Jaslo synagogue. A congregant found a faded picture. This picture provided the inspiration for the ark’s remarkable reconstruction. It’s the largest ark ever crafted by Israeli artisans. The ark’s presence inspires awe and devotion.
The Forest Hill Jewish Centre is more than a place of worship. It is a community center. It offers after-school programs. It hosts celebrations in a gorgeous banquet hall. There’s even a green-friendly rooftop terrace. This terrace will be used for Sukkot celebrations. Wedding ceremonies will also be held on the rooftop.
The building’s creation wasn’t without its challenges. The $12 million budget grew to $20 million. The congregation still needs to raise another $6 million. Many contributed to this ambitious project. John and Julie Kaplan are credited as visionaries and builders. Max and Gianna Glassman played a key role in the Jaslo replica concept. Jeremy Friedman and Fred Wax chaired the building committee. The Latners themselves provided major funding. Their generosity is recognized by the centre’s name.
The Forest Hill Jewish Centre’s impact extends beyond its walls. It’s a place of learning. It’s a place of comfort for both Jewish and non-Jewish communities. Plans are underway to build a Holocaust memorial room. This room will serve as an educational space. It will remind future generations of the horrors of the Holocaust and the importance of remembering. It is a centre of pride for its community. It’s a beacon of hope for the future. This synagogue is more than just a building. It is a legacy.