Torah scrolls to be relocated

Temple Beth Haverim will march the synagogue’s four Torah scrolls—including one rescued from the Holocaust—to the congregation’s new building on Ladyface Mountain in Agoura Hills at 9 a.m. Sun., March 2.

This event will signal the opening of the synagogue’s new home at 29900 Ladyface Court. The march will originate at the temple’s old site, 5142 Clareton Drive, Agoura Hills.

Rabbi Gershon Johnson and Cantor Kenny Ellis will officiate at the building dedication ceremony at 11 a.m. at Ladyface Court. The ceremony will include the posting of a mezuzah on the entry doorpost and a ribbon cutting.

"The Torah is a tree of life," said Johnson. "Its commandments and epic stories give our lives meaning and purpose. Our temple is merely a shell without the scrolls of the Torah and without the walls resounding with the prayers, melodies and texts of Torah being taught and studied there."

Local dignitaries and clergy as well as the temple’s congregation of more than 450 families have been invited to participate. Throughout the march, members will take turns carrying each scroll under a huppah, a wedding canopy.

"The Torah is held under a huppah out of respect and also in celebration of the simcha, a joyous occasion," said Johnson.

"This march is an opportunity for all parents and grandparents to observe this mitzvah and show our children our respect and devotion to the Torah and the temple."

Cantor Ellis will lead the marchers in song along the route.

Temple Beth Haverim is a Conservative synagogue serving the West San Fernando and Conejo Valleys. For more information, please call (818) 991-7111 or visit the temple’s Internet Website at www.templebethhaverim.org.