Jewish Culture & Traditions
At The Bess and Moe Greenberg Family Hillel Lodge Long-Term Care Home of Ottawa (Hillel Lodge), we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming Jewish environment that respects and supports all faiths. We strive to offer a rich and fulfilling life for residents through engaging activities, shared values, and meaningful experiences. While holiday celebrations, traditions, and cuisine are deeply rooted in Jewish traditions, our team appreciates and encourages the understanding and participation of non-Jewish residents and their families.
What It Means to Live in a Jewish Cultural Long-Term Care Home
Hillel Lodge is committed to maintaining the cultural and religious traditions of the Jewish faith through kosher food preparation, observance of the Sabbath and Jewish holidays, synagogue services, and special recreational programs. All residents, families, staff, contractors, and volunteers are expected to respect the Jewish faith and help maintain this cultural atmosphere.
As a Jewish cultural home, Hillel Lodge celebrates Jewish holidays and festivals, incorporating regular cultural programs that highlight these traditions. The on-site synagogue provides a space for residents to attend services during Shabbat and High Holidays, with Rabbis leading worship and offering guidance on Jewish practices.
Religious and Spiritual Services
Although established as a Jewish cultural home, we warmly welcome residents from all faiths and backgrounds at Hillel Lodge. A spiritual care assessment is conducted upon admission, allowing us to better understand each resident’s spiritual and religious needs.
Pastoral visits can be arranged upon request or organized individually through the Life Enrichment Manager. An attending Rabbi and visiting clergy members are available to provide assistance during times of need, illness, grief, or palliative care.
Celebrating Jewish Holidays
Hillel Lodge places a strong emphasis on Jewish holidays, with programming and decorations reflecting important celebrations. While non-Jewish holidays like Halloween and Christmas are not observed in common areas, residents may have personal decorations in their rooms, ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment.
Observing the Shabbat
Shabbat is a time for religious observance, emphasizing rest and reflection. From sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday, common areas are free from televisions and music, and the Café is closed, with minimal recreational programming. A special elevator operates during this time to assist those observing the Sabbath.
Keeping Kosher
Our kitchen operates in accordance with Kashruth (Jewish dietary laws), guaranteeing that all food served adheres to specific kosher guidelines. This includes regulations regarding the types of animals that may be consumed, the methods of slaughter, and the prohibition against mixing meat and dairy products. Our kitchen is certified kosher by the Ottawa Vaad HaKashrut, ensuring rigorous supervision and stringent compliance with these dietary laws.
By following these principles, we ensure our meals fully align with Jewish dietary requirements, providing residents with both nourishing and culturally respectful dining experiences.
- Only food prepared at Hillel Lodge can be served in common areas, ensuring that all meals meet kosher standards.
- Residents may store and eat non-kosher food in their rooms only, allowing them the flexibility to maintain personal dietary preferences.
Visit the Food Services section of our website for more details about our kosher practices and menu offerings.