Question 1

I have never attended Westmount. Should I contact someone before coming?

Accepted Answer

You are always welcome, and you do not need to make advance arrangements. If you have questions before your visit, use one of the contact choices on our website, email the office or call during office hours. The shul office is open Monday through Thursday from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Question 2

Where should I park, and how do I find the shul?

Accepted Answer

Park in the large parking lot on the west side of the building. Look for the breezeway, with large arches on one side and double doors on the other. Enter through the double doors and take either the stairs or the elevator to the second floor. When you exit the elevator, turn left. From the stairs, turn right. Continue to the end of the hallway, where the Westmount Shul sign is prominently displayed.

Question 3

Do I need an access code to enter the building?

Accepted Answer

No access code is required between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. The building is generally open throughout Shabbos and during regular service times. The exterior doors lock at 9:00 p.m.; if you expect to arrive after that time, please contact us beforehand so that we know you are coming.

Question 4

Is Westmount accessible to people with mobility limitations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Westmount is fully accessible by elevator, including a Shabbos elevator. Accessible washrooms are available, and the sanctuary has designated areas for wheelchair seating. The shul also provides Shabbos-compliant mobility scooters for members who are unable to walk to shul on Shabbos. Please contact the office in advance to discuss availability and arrangements.

Question 5

What should a woman expect when attending Westmount?

Accepted Answer

Women use the same building entrance and the same main synagogue doors as everyone else. Upon entering the shul, turn left into the women’s section. The section has a beautiful mechitzah with one-way glass, allowing women a clear view into the sanctuary while maintaining privacy from the men’s side.

Question 6

What should I wear to Westmount?

Accepted Answer

We simply ask visitors to dress respectfully when entering the synagogue. A male visitor who does not have a kippah or tallis may borrow one from the shul.

Question 7

Are non-Jewish guests welcome at Westmount?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Non-Jewish guests are welcome to attend services or accompany a Jewish friend or family member. No advance arrangements are required for an occasional visit. Someone interested in attending regularly or exploring conversion should speak with the Rabbi. He can discuss the person’s circumstances, explain the role of a recognized Beis Din and help guide them toward an appropriate conversion process. Westmount’s welcoming community and extensive learning opportunities make it particularly well suited to sincere prospective converts.

Question 8

Is there children’s programming on Shabbos morning?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Children from age two through bar mitzvah are welcome. The program begins at 10:30 a.m., during Musaf and the women’s class, and continues until the main Kiddush. Children are supervised by capable and experienced leaders. Parents should remain in the shul while their children attend; this is not a drop-off program.

Question 9

Which Shabbos morning minyan should I attend?

Accepted Answer

The Main Minyan begins at 8:45 a.m. and concludes at approximately 11:15. It offers unhurried davening with plenty of robust communal singing. The Indian Sephardic Minyan also begins at 8:45 a.m. and concludes at approximately 11:15. Its davening reflects the distinctive traditions and flavour of the Indian Sephardic community. The Dads’ or Family Minyan meets in the Moriah Room from 9:30 to approximately 11:15. It moves at a brisker pace and is especially comfortable for parents bringing younger children, whose natural sounds and movement are warmly accommodated. Times can occasionally change, so please check the current weekly bulletin before coming.

Question 10

Do I need an Orthodox background or the ability to read Hebrew?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Westmount welcomes Jews at every stage of Jewish knowledge and observance. ArtScroll siddurim with English translation are available, and page numbers are announced when needed. A visitor does not necessarily have to attend the entire morning service. Women may arrive at 10:30 a.m. for the Rebbetzin’s class, followed by the community Kiddush at 11:15. The Rabbi speaks during Kiddush, and the program generally concludes around 12:45 p.m. Visitors are also very welcome simply to join the davening and experience Westmount’s beautiful communal singing.

Question 11

What nusach and style of davening does Westmount follow?

Accepted Answer

The Main Minyan and Family Minyan daven Nusach Ashkenaz. The Indian Sephardic Minyan follows its distinctive Indian Sephardic nusach and traditions. Every Friday night, Westmount welcomes Shabbos with a spirited, Carlebach-style Kabbalas Shabbos.

Question 12

What should I expect at Westmount’s weekly Kiddush?

Accepted Answer

Kiddush is one of the highlights of Shabbos at Westmount—and everyone is invited, member or not. It is much more than a few refreshments: a full brunch is served, beginning with fish, herring and dips, followed by challah, cholent, kishka, meat, dessert, cake and fruit. You may enjoy a light Kiddush or wash and make it your full Shabbos meal. After everyone has had an opportunity to eat, the Rabbi delivers a meaningful talk. The meal then continues with conversation and communal singing. Coffee is available afterward, and many people remain to relax and schmooze. It is friendly, unhurried and an excellent way to meet the community.

Question 13

How do I become a member of Westmount?

Accepted Answer

We encourage you to attend Westmount first and experience the community for yourself. Come for several weeks—or for as long as you need—before deciding whether it feels like the right home for you. When you are ready to become a regular member, contact the shul office to discuss membership. Finances should never prevent someone from belonging. Westmount does not refuse membership because a person is unable to afford the standard dues.

Question 14

May non-members attend Westmount’s classes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Westmount’s weekday and Shabbos classes are open to members and non-members alike. No advance registration or payment is required. Many classes are accessible to people without an extensive Torah-learning background. Contact the Rabbi or the shul office, and we will gladly help you choose the classes most appropriate for you.

Question 15

Who makes up the Westmount community?

Accepted Answer

Westmount is a mature, genuinely intergenerational community. Many of our members are empty nesters and seniors—both married and single—alongside families with older children and a growing number of younger families. One of Westmount’s special qualities is the natural warmth between the generations: younger members are comfortable learning from, celebrating with and forming real friendships with older members. Westmount is especially suited to people looking for meaningful davening, regular Torah learning and continued growth in their Yiddishkeit. It is more than a place to attend occasional lifecycle events; it is a community in which to build an ongoing Jewish life.

Question 16

Can Westmount help arrange a Shabbos meal or accommodation?

Accepted Answer

Gladly. We love helping guests find a place for a Shabbos meal or, when needed, a place to stay. The more advance notice you can provide, the better, but we always try to accommodate every reasonable request. Please contact the Rabbi or the shul office.

Question 17

I need to say Kaddish or am observing a yahrzeit. Whom should I speak to?

Accepted Answer

Advance notice is always appreciated, especially if you are requesting an aliyah, but we can often accommodate requests when you arrive. Our gabbai is friendly and approachable. Simply ask someone to point him out, explain what you need, and we will assist to the greatest extent possible.

Question 18

May I arrange a private conversation with the Rabbi?

Accepted Answer

Certainly. Please contact the shul office and briefly indicate the nature of the matter. The office will notify the Rabbi and help arrange an appropriate time for the conversation.

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