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Toronto, Sunday, September 17, 2006
In the difficult times we are living in, I believe dialogue is our greatest source of hope for today and for the future. I am committed to fostering a conversation among all Canadians; I see that as central to my role as governor general of Canada.
Just this morning, I met with a diverse group of Muslim women, representing every walk of life. I found the exchange very informative, and extremely rewarding.
And now, it is a great pleasure to join you here today, to share in this very special celebration and pursue my national dialogue.
The 150th anniversary of the Holy Blossom Temple is an important milestone for the Jewish community of Toronto and Canada. But it is also much more than that.
This symbolic anniversary is a tribute to the vision, the faith and the hard work of all the people who have been members of this congregation since its humble beginnings in 1856.
It is a celebration of the current congregation’s energy, devotion, and commitment to a rich and vibrant community.
And it is a pledge to generations to come, a firm foundation upon which to build a solid future.
As I was preparing for today’s commemoration, someone showed me an article on Holy Blossom Temple by Robert Fulford. As I read the article, one of the aspects that struck me was how Holy Blossom has evolved over the years, from Orthodox to Reform.
And I thought about how Canadian society has also evolved over the same time, over the past 150 years. We have gone from a dominant European and Christian population, to one that encompasses people from so many religious, linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
One of my objectives is to bridge the divides that continue to separate many different groups in this country, for example between the young and the old, the wealthy and the disadvantaged, and the gaps that isolate people of different origins.
As I meet with groups across this great country, I am always mindful of the tremendous achievement we share, of creating a society of openness and respect, where all citizens have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
I am certain that you share my commitment to fostering greater cooperation among peoples. I know that Holy Blossom Temple, in addition to serving its congregation, has long been dedicated to reaching out to the broader community around it.
This can be seen in your strong tradition of generosity, and Holy Blossom’s engagement with the community, notably in the area of social action.
Among the Temple’s many good deeds, there has been your involvement with youth, the homeless and the HIV-AIDS community.
As well, I want to mention the Out of the Cold Program, which provides the needy with food and emergency shelter in the coldest months of the year.
Your history of giving and of social solidarity, combined with the Temple’s esteemed tradition of education, are just two examples of the absolutely vital role Holy Blossom Temple plays in the life of this city.
Indeed, this Temple is a symbol of the importance of the Jewish community in Canadian society, a vital partner with roots that go back to a time before Confederation.
In conclusion, I want to stress one of the chief benefits of this 150th anniversary, and that is the opportunity it provides for all of us to stop and appreciate the tremendous contribution that the Holy Blossom Temple has made to the cultural enrichment of Toronto, of Ontario and of Canada.
On behalf of all Canadians, I want to thank you for all that you have done, and congratulate you all on reaching this milestone.
I have no doubt that, considering the strong attachment of this congregation to its faith, to its spiritual home, and to each other, Holy Blossom Temple will celebrate many more anniversaries in the years to come.