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In August 2008, Saint John expatriotes were invited back to the city to say goodbye to the venerable structure which was their spiritual home for ninety years, renew ties of family and friendship, and look to the future. More than 150 people made the pilgrimage home. This event was titled the Shalom Shaarei Zedek weekend. It was celebrated with special Sabbath services and numerous opportunities for families and friends to meet and renew ties. The highlight took place on Saturday morning when each member in the congregation was given the honour of an aliyah as they were called forward for prayers by current home location rather than by name. The Friday night service was followed by refreshments (sweets of every sort) and on Saturday by a special Kiddush reminiscent of those held after bar mitzvahs in the heyday of the community. The closing event was a brunch held at the Delta Hotel. Many of the stories of life in the community were shared with the gathering by representatives of each generation of those who grew up in Saint John. For most these stories were heard for the first time since the events took place. Highlights of the community's history were also shared through slides, city tours and visits to the Museum.
It was truly a weekend to remember.