Sault Ste. Marie’s Jewish Community Rallies for High Holidays

In Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, the local Jewish community is preparing for a significant transition as younger leaders take on crucial roles. With only 35 families currently affiliated with Congregation Beth Jacob, the synagogue is gearing up to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2026 but faces challenges in maintaining its religious practices. This year, for the first time, the community will conduct High Holiday services without hired clergy, relying instead on local congregants under the guidance of Tova Arbus, the synagogue president.

The previous leader, Jeff Arbus, who has been a stalwart of the community, is currently facing health issues that prevent him from leading the services. Gil Cymbalist, another pivotal figure in the congregation and a former president, passed away on September 8, 2023, after a battle with ALS. The loss of these key members has prompted a sense of urgency among younger congregants to ensure the continuation of Jewish life in the area.

Tova Arbus, now taking on her father’s responsibilities at the age of 40, reflects on the importance of community resilience. “If we don’t do it, who will?” she asks. Recognizing the historical significance of their synagogue, she is actively involved in planning a month of meaningful activities leading up to the High Holidays. This includes preparing pre-teens for bar and bat mitzvahs, teaching family education classes, and collaborating with the City of Sault Ste. Marie to create an exhibit honoring local Jewish life.

The Jewish community in Sault Ste. Marie, which has roots dating back over a century, has experienced significant decline over the years. Once numbering around 200, the congregation now relies on a core group of 35 families. Many members have relocated, leaving the remaining families committed to preserving their heritage. Tova Arbus emphasizes the unique experience of being Jewish in a smaller community, stating, “It feels like it matters a lot that there are still active Jewish communities in small towns in Canada.”

The synagogue has historically operated without a full-time rabbi, relying on lay leadership for its services. With the financial constraints preventing the hiring of clergy, last year marked a turning point when Tova and her father led the High Holidays for the first time. As the community faces another challenging year, Tova is determined to step up and continue the traditions that have shaped her upbringing.

In a recent podcast interview, Tova shared insights into the community’s dynamics. She noted that despite the challenges, there is a strong sense of family among congregants. “We’ve managed to create a community that truly cares about each other,” she said, highlighting the bonds formed through shared experiences and mutual support.

As the community prepares for the upcoming High Holidays, Tova is also focusing on education and outreach. With limited resources, they have begun online learning initiatives, collaborating with synagogues in neighboring areas to enrich their educational offerings. This adaptability has become essential for maintaining engagement among younger members.

While the Jewish community grapples with its future, it also faces external pressures. In recent months, local protests against Israel have prompted discussions within the community about solidarity and identity. Tova noted that the city’s mayor has been an ally, reinforcing the importance of Jewish representation and safety amid changing social dynamics.

Looking forward, the community is excited about the upcoming exhibit at the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, which will showcase the rich history and contributions of Jewish residents. Tova, alongside the museum staff, is collecting stories, artifacts, and photographs to create a comprehensive narrative about their heritage. This initiative aims not only to celebrate the past but also to inspire future generations.

As the congregation approaches its 80th anniversary, Tova Arbus remains hopeful. She envisions a vibrant future for Congregation Beth Jacob, where the next generation of Jewish families continues to thrive in Sault Ste. Marie. “We are working hard to keep our community alive,” she asserts, embodying the spirit of resilience that has characterized Jewish life in the area for decades.