Environmental Shabbat

Every Shabbat can be an environmentally conscious Shabbat, but the Shabbat near Earth Day (April 22) can be a true "Environmental Shabbat." We hope you will help promote this effort in your synagogues through sermons, readings, educational programming, and indoor and outdoor activities throughout Earth Week and even Earth Month. Below are links to assist you. You can also use the concept of an “Environmental Shabbat” as an inspiration to kick off a “greening” effort in your synagogue. Click here for “Tips to Help Make Synagogues More Environmentally Friendly.” Click here for COEJL's Greening Synagogues Resources.

What are some ways to observe an "Environmental Shabbat"?

It can be as simple as giving a sermon or sharing Jewish teachings on environmental stewardship and its connection to Judaism. It could involve bringing in a speaker, a visiting scholar-in-residence, or a congregant to speak on the issues; sharing teachable moments with religious school students and/or through a Tot Shabbat service; creating an environmentally-sustainable kiddush, oneg, or Shabbat meal; a tiyul or hike to a local natural area or a Shabbat service outdoors to truly connect to each element of creation leading up to our day of rest.

From COEJL’s Resources:

Why Earth Day is a Jewish Holiday?

Ten Jewish Teachings on Judaism and Environmentalism

Jews, Jewish Texts, and Nature: A Brief History

Tending to Our Cosmic Oasis

Why Energy is a Jewish Issue

Together We Work Towards Tikkun Olam - Social Action Service (environmental theme)

Sunrise Service

Environmental Speakers Guide

For activities to help you celebrate Earth Week, visit SEEDS: the Source for Environmental Education, Discourse, and Study -- COEJL's Interactive Program Bank.

Tips to Help Make Synagogues More Environmentally Friendly

Earth Day Network

Earth Day in a Box [pdf]