There’s something deeply meaningful, even Jewish, about putting a new roof on a building. It’s more than construction; it’s about shmirat haBayit, the mitzvah of safeguarding our communal home. A roof offers shelter, security, and stability. It’s what allows everything underneath it, learning, community, tradition, to flourish.
Since 1912, Edmonton Talmud Torah has been a cornerstone of Jewish life in this city. A place where education, Jewish values, and community come together. Our current building, which opened in 1997, has carried this mission forward, welcoming generations of students into classrooms filled with curiosity, connection, and Jewish identity.
But just as our tradition teaches chadesh yameinu k’kedem, to renew our days as of old, we also recognize that sacred spaces need care. Earlier this year, the Edmonton Talmud Torah Society made the essential decision to replace the aging roof of our school. After decades of service, it began to show its wear, leaking in places and no longer providing the protection our students and community deserve. These decisions are costly, but necessary. A reflection of achrayut, our shared responsibility for one another and for the future.
Construction began in June, right after the school year ended. By October, the work was completed, achieved thanks to thoughtful planning and the dedicated efforts of those committed to our school’s well-being.
But the new roof is more than just a structural upgrade. It’s an investment in dor l’dor, from generation to generation. It ensures that our students can continue to learn, celebrate, and build community in a space that is safe, warm, and welcoming.
This project reflects the strength of our kehillah, the vision of our leadership, the generosity of supporters, and the deep-rooted value we place on education, continuity, and care. It’s a physical improvement, but also a symbolic one: a statement that our commitment to Jewish life in Edmonton is strong and enduring.
Thank you to board members James Friedman and Barry Slawsky for championing this project!
(L-R: Barry Slawsky, Dwayne and Bruce of BLM Roofing, James Friedman)
