Counted
Jewish adults aged 13 and older may be counted in a minyan.
About Beth Zion
Rooted in tradition.Open to everyone.
Beth Zion is an independent, egalitarian Jewish congregation serving Durham Region—a place to gather, worship, learn and celebrate.
A community that feels welcoming, relevant and alive.
Tradition and inclusion go hand in hand here. Whether you have been part of Jewish life for decades or are beginning to explore it, there is a place for you at Beth Zion.
Our Story
Over a century of Jewish life in Durham Region.
Our story began in 1926, when the Oshawa Hebrew Congregation was established to create a permanent Jewish presence in the community. Our current home was dedicated in 1956 and has since held generations of Shabbat services, holidays, B’nai Mitzvah, weddings and memorials.
Much has changed, but our purpose remains constant: to be a spiritual and communal home for Jewish people and families throughout Durham Region.
1926Congregation established
1956Current home dedicated
Our History on Film
Traditions and Celebrations
Discover the people, traditions and defining moments that shaped Oshawa’s Jewish community in this historical video presentation.
Watch the story on YouTube →Our Approach
Meaningful. Participatory. Egalitarian.
Jewish community grows stronger when everyone can contribute. At Beth Zion, people of every gender have equal opportunities to participate in worship, receive honours and take on leadership roles.
Called
Jewish adults aged 13 and older may be called to the Torah for an Aliyah.
Included
Leadership, honours and opportunities to participate are open to everyone.
Together
Our congregation uses mixed seating unless otherwise indicated.
A community where you can belong.
We welcome people of different ages, identities, family structures, backgrounds and levels of observance—including interfaith and multicultural families, people returning to Jewish life and those exploring Judaism.
As part of a multifaith network of affirming places of worship in Durham Region, we welcome and affirm 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in every aspect of congregational life.
You do not need to arrive knowing every prayer or custom. Bring your questions, your experiences and yourself.
Meet Our Rabbi
Rabbi Israel Man
Rabbi Man has devoted more than six decades to Jewish worship, education, pastoral care and community leadership across Israel, South Africa, the United States and Canada.
Born in Tel Aviv and educated in the Orthodox tradition, he began his career as a teacher before training as a cantor in South Africa. He later served at Beth Tzedec Congregation in Toronto and as Senior Hazzan at Beth David Congregation in Miami, where he pursued rabbinic studies and received ordination.
Throughout his career, Rabbi Man has taught hundreds of children, prepared young people for B’nai Mitzvah and led communities through holidays and life’s defining moments. He has served Beth Zion since 2007, bringing a lifetime of learning, music, compassion and service to our congregation.
Community Leadership
Koren Kassirer
Vice-President · Service Lay Leader · Educational Director
Koren Kassirer is a certified B.Ed. teacher with more than 30 years of experience teaching in supplementary Hebrew School programs and preparing B’nai Mitzvah students, including adults.
She is also a Certified Life-Cycle Celebrant and yoga teacher, as well as a musician, artist and active community volunteer. Koren is passionate about creating innovative programs that bring people together.
Have a programming idea? Tell us →Jewish Life at Beth Zion
Many ways to participate.
Community is built through shared worship, learning and relationships. Join at the level that feels right for you.
Worship
Shabbat & Holiday Services
Twice-monthly Saturday morning services combine prayer, song and lively study, led by Rabbi Man and members of the congregation. Join in person or through Zoom.
Explore servicesLearning
Questions Are Welcome
Jewish learning happens at every age through conversation, study, worship and shared experience.
Explore learningConnection
Beyond the Sanctuary
Holiday celebrations, cultural programs, social gatherings and volunteer initiatives turn introductions into lasting relationships.
Explore upcoming eventsGood to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend services at Beth Zion?
Members, visitors and guests are welcome. For security and hospitality purposes, we ask first-time visitors to contact us before attending.
Do I need to be Jewish to participate?
No. We welcome people and families from many backgrounds, including interfaith and multicultural families. Some religious honours are reserved for Jewish participants, but everyone is welcome to attend, learn and take part in community life.
Is Beth Zion affiliated with a Jewish movement?
Beth Zion is an independent, unaffiliated and egalitarian Jewish congregation. Our services are rooted in Jewish tradition while remaining participatory and accessible.
How often are Shabbat services held?
We gather twice monthly on Saturday mornings, in person and through Zoom. Please contact us to confirm upcoming dates and arrange your first visit.
Do members have access to a Jewish Burial Plot?
Beth Zion does have plots allocated in the Bathurst Lawn Memorial Park in Toronto. Contact us for more details.
What security arrangements do you have in place to keep the congregation safe?
Beth Zion has a very close relationship with the Durham Regional Police Service. We are consulting with them regularly. We also hire private security companies when needed. Our cameras and monitored security systems have also been recently updated.
Your Jewish Home in Durham Region
Come as you are.
Whether you are new to the area, reconnecting with Jewish life or looking for a congregation that reflects your values, there is a place for you here.
Call us at 905-723-2353