'Time for action,' says rabbi after attempted arson at Westmount synagogue
Posted on: Jun 05, 2026 19:12 IST | Posted by: Cbc
In the backwash of an attempted incendiarism at a tabernacle, a Montreal rabbi told her members "this is clip for process" and more needs to be done to combat antisemitism.
Montreal police investigators will meet with a 38-year-old suspect on Friday in connection with an overnight incident at Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom, a synagogue in Westmount, Que.
A 911 call was placed just after midnight on Friday about a person attempting to set a fire at a place of worship on Sherbrooke Street West and Wood Avenue, according to the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal.
When officers arrived to the scene, they were assisted by Westmount's public safety team and were able to arrest the suspect near the scene.
According to police's preliminary information, the suspect broke a window with the intent of setting a fire inside the building.
Police say there was minor damage to the building and firefighters intervened quickly to stop the fire from growing. No one was injured.
In an email to the synagogue's members, Rabbi Lisa Grushcow highlighted what she described as "the scourge of antisemitism" while saying more needs to be done, including more enforcement of existing laws.
"Responding requires being proactive, not reactive. Naming the ways in which external conflicts are being imported. Recognizing that while criticism of Israel can be legitimate, when the Jewish State and those who love it are libelled, violence against Jews is the result," she wrote.
"Politicians need courage. Law enforement needs support. Neighbourhoods need good neighbours."
In February of last year, Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom was targeted by vandalism.
Westmount Mayor Michael Stern issued a statement condemning the attempted arson.
"The safety of our residents, institutions, and community gathering places remains a top priority for the city," he said.
The incident at the Westmount synagogue comes on the same week Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a speech in which he said the country was in a "crisis of antisemitism."
He said antisemitism had reached levels in Canada not seen in the post-war period.
He announced his government is launching a new faith advisory council to combat hate.
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion will be headed by former senator Marc Gold.
In her email to congregants on Friday, Grushcow expressed confidence in Gold's ability to head the committee. Gold is a member of the temple.
Written by Antoni Nerestant
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.