Shaar Hashomayim
Canada's oldest Ashkenazi synagogue, the Shaar is a historic Westmount, Quebec congregation nurturing Jewish life through tradition, learning, and community.
Upcoming Events
YP Sushi & Cocktails in the Sukkah π£πΈβ¨
Young professionals gather in the sukkah for sushi, cocktails, music, and great vibes under the stars.
About Shaar Hashomayim
Congregation Shaar Hashomayim, affectionately known as “the Shaar,” is a traditional Ashkenazi synagogue located in Westmount, Quebec (Montreal). Founded in 1846 by English, German, and Polish Jews, it is Canada’s oldest Ashkenazi synagogue and the largest traditional synagogue in the country, with a sanctuary seating 1,800 and a chapel seating 260.
The Shaar continues to nurture Jewish life rooted in tradition, enriched by learning, and sustained by a shared responsibility to the future. It is widely considered one of the premier venues in Montreal for weddings, B’nei Mitzvah celebrations, and community events, with a magnificent main sanctuary and extensive facilities.
The congregation is led by Rabbi Adam Scheier and Assistant Rabbi Yehoshua Ellis, along with Cantor Gideon Zelermyer, and is supported by an extended network of clergy, lay leadership, dedicated volunteers, members, and staff. The Shaar offers religious services, education, lifecycle events, and community programming for the Montreal Jewish community.