Heartfelt prayer
We come to daven with purpose and sincerity, in an atmosphere where tefillah is valued and every person beside us is respected.
About Westmount
A place to belong.
A community that helps you grow.
Westmount is a warm Orthodox synagogue in Thornhill, bringing heartfelt tefillah, meaningful Torah, genuine friendship and care for one another together under one roof.
Meaningful learning
Torah at Westmount has depth and relevance. We learn together so that we can think more clearly, live more thoughtfully and keep growing.
Genuine friendship
We make time for meals, conversation and laughter. These genuine relationships are what turn a minyan into a caring kehilla.
Caring for one another
Warmth is reflected in the way we speak.
We want every person to feel safe, valued and respected. During davening, we give tefillah our attention. In our community life, we are careful not to speak negatively about others. Our no-talking, no-lashon-hara standard grows from how deeply we care about one another.
An open door—and a clear direction
Every Jew who wants to grow is welcome.
You do not need to arrive knowing everything or doing everything. You simply need a sincere desire to take your next step. Westmount welcomes Jews from different backgrounds and stages of observance who want a community that will welcome them, encourage them and care about them as they grow.
Introduce yourself
Our spiritual leadership
Rabbi Yossi &
Rebbetzin Gail Michalowicz
For more than two decades, Rabbi Yossi and Rebbetzin Gail Michalowicz have helped shape Westmount into a community where sincere avodah and genuine human warmth strengthen one another.
Rabbi Michalowicz was born and raised in Cleveland and came to Toronto in 1984. His work in Jewish education, school leadership, adult learning and outreach continues to inform his practical, growth-oriented approach to rabbanus. His shiurim call people to think deeply and turn inspiration into lasting change.
Rebbetzin Gail brings warmth, insight and practical wisdom to her work with women and families. Through teaching, mentoring and personal guidance, she helps people set meaningful goals and move toward them with honesty and confidence.
Together, the Rabbi and Rebbetzin have built their family and their community around Torah, responsibility and growth. All of their children are married, and their expanding family remains a source of deep gratitude and joy.
Come grow with us