Past Leadership
In Loving Memory
Cantor Henry Weingluck Z’L (1903 - 1987)
Cantor Albert Feldman Z’L (1914 - 2002)
Rabbi Reuben Slonim Z’L (1914 - 2000)
Rabbi Allen Veaner Z’L (1929 - 2016)
Cantor Esther Ghan Firestone Z’L (1925 - 2015)
Rabbi Chezi Zionce Z”L (1958 - 2018)
Cantor Esther Ghan Firestone Z’L
Beloved Cantor of Congregation Habonim (1985–2015)
Cantor Esther Ghan Firestone served Congregation Habonim with grace and brilliance from 1985 until her passing in 2015. A celebrated opera singer, she delighted audiences across Canada with her exquisite voice and musical depth. From Chasidic melodies to Israeli folk songs, Esther’s music touched the hearts of all who heard her from the bimah.
Esther passed away on May 28, 2015. Read a eulogy delivered by Religious Leader Eli Rubenstein here.
Other biographical information:
Born in Winnipeg, Esther Ghan Firestone was a soprano, cantor, and choral conductor. After studying piano and voice in Toronto, she quickly rose to national prominence, performing with the CBC, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and across Canada.
She was among the first female cantors in Canada, holding positions at Beth-El Synagogue, Temple Emanu-El, and finally at Habonim. She co-founded and conducted the Habonim Youth Choir, whose “Songs for the March of the Living” recording gained international recognition.
Her extraordinary career also included leading women’s choirs, recording music with her children, and bringing Jewish song to new generations through her teaching and mentorship.
Rabbi Chezi Zionce Z’L
Associate Religious Leader, Congregation Habonim (2010–2012)
Rabbi Chezi Zionce was a driving force behind Jewish life in downtown Toronto for many years. With his trademark energy and charisma, he rejuvenated Toronto’s First Narayever Synagogue (1986–1998), later serving congregations in Charleston and Naples before returning to Canada.
He joined Habonim as Associate Religious Leader from 2010–2012, and later led Beit Rayim Synagogue, where he doubled membership before his passing in 2018. His impact continues to resonate in the many communities he inspired.
Learn more: Remembering Rabbi Chezi Zionce
Avrum Rosensweig
Associate Religious Leader, Congregation Habonim (2005–2015)
Avrum Rosensweig served as Associate Religious Leader at Habonim from 2005 to 2015. He is the founding CEO of Ve’ahavta, Canada’s Jewish humanitarian and relief organization dedicated to tikkun olam — repairing the world.
Today, Avrum hosts The Avrum Rosensweig Show: The King of Questions on YouTube, featuring thoughtful conversations with diverse voices. His focus often returns to Israel and its people, exploring compassion and resilience in the wake of challenge.
While no longer formally on staff, Avrum remains a cherished member of the Habonim family, frequently participating in programs and sharing his Divrei Torah weekly with the congregation.
Learn more: avrumrosensweig.com
Watch: @avrumrosensweigshow
Thu, January 22 2026
4 Shevat 5786
See photos of the construction of our beautiful building
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