The Sabbatical Year (Shemitah), as observed in the Land of Israel in biblical times, was a time when our farmer ancestors let the land lie fallow, abandoning ownership so that all could gather food and eat freely, and cancelled all debts. Shemitah provided the opportunity, once every seven years, for people to step back from their usual agricultural and economic labors to reconnect with the natural world and with each other.

We will offer opportunities to study with our clergy and outside teachers about the Jewish connection to the natural world, as well as hosting talks on topics like recycling, composting, gardening, reducing plastic waste, solar energy, environmental justice, and our industrial food chain. And there will be a Book Club on environment-themed books!

There will be monthly ideas around sustainability choices--ways we can create a greener home life for ourselves and our families. And there will be hikes and outings!

We’ll try to green our TBA campus by looking at our congregation’s recycling, food waste, use of dishes and utensils, and use of water and energy. And there are plans for a vegetable garden on site!

Right now we’re looking for Book Club coordinators, and members to work in our Facilities track on issues of TBA’s recycling, food/utensils use, and greening our congregational buildings.

Contact Green Team Chair, Avi Havivi if you'd like to join these efforts.

TEMPLE BETH AM