Membership
Membership has its privileges
The Chai Centre keeps an open door - physically and spiritually - to new and returning members alike. The only real requirement is the wish to grow in your connection with Hashem.
Become a memberWhy join
Daily classes
Live classes on Judaism and spirituality, most in person and some online. From Pirkei Avos to Chovos Halivovos and everything between - each one takes on its own flavour. See the current list.
A community, not an audience
A family-based organisation that puts its members first, from every segment of Judaism. Events through the year give new members a way in rather than a seat at the back.
High Holiday services you can follow
Education-based services that come alive with meaning for everyone attending. No Hebrew reading or comprehension is needed to get the most out of them.
Come as you are
Members come from every segment of Judaism and every level of observance and knowledge. Nobody is quizzed at the door, and there is no background you need to have in order to belong here.
Marking the moments
Candlelighting times each week, Yizkor said for those you have lost, and an office that knows who you are when you call. The parts of Jewish life that matter most are the ones easiest to let slip.
Learning with Rabbi Heshi
The Chai Centre's founder makes learning genuinely interesting, and is completely accepting of Jews from all walks of life and every background. His motto in class: the only stupid question is the one you don't ask. Come to Ask the Rabbi on a Tuesday night and see.
The levels
Two tiers across four levels. Bronze, Silver and Gold are Yearly memberships, open to anyone. Platinum is the Lifetime tier, for those interested in a burial plot - see below.
Bronze
$180/ year
- 1 complimentary High Holiday ticket
- All classes and events
Silver
$360/ year
- 2 complimentary High Holiday tickets
- All classes and events
Gold
$500/ year
- 4 complimentary High Holiday tickets
- All classes and events
Platinum
$2,100/ year
- 5 complimentary High Holiday tickets
- All classes and events
- Counts toward a burial plot
A membership runs for twelve months. All memberships are eligible for a Canadian tax receipt on request. Memberships are not refundable.
Lifetime Membership and burial plots
What it is
Lifetime Membership is the arrangement for members who want a burial plot through the Chai Centre. It is not something you buy at checkout - it is granted by Rabbi Heshi, and you will receive a letter from him once approval is given.
What it costs
Reaching Lifetime status means contributing the Minimum Commitment Level, currently $6,300, specifically toward the plot. Platinum membership payments count toward it, and you may contribute more at any time to reach it sooner.
Two things worth knowing
The Minimum Commitment Level changes from time to time, so it is confirmed at the point of applying. And a Lifetime Member keeps paying their Yearly membership regardless of how much has gone toward the Commitment Level - the two are separate.
Should a plot become necessary before the Commitment Level has been reached, a top-up will be required at that time.
Ready to join?
Choose your level and you will have your Membership ID in a few minutes.
Become a memberQuestions
Anything at all about your membership status, or about joining. Nobody has ever asked a stupid one.