As we enter the season of gratitude, we’re reminded of the beauty of change—both in nature and in our journeys as animal advocates.
In this newsletter, you’ll find updates on new ways we’re advancing compassionate practices within our communities, stories from Shamayim community members- like you- making a difference, and we’ve included a link to our updated Plant-Based Thanksgiving guide, to help you engage meaningfully in your own communities.
We hope you feel the support of this community, united by a shared commitment to kindness for all beings. Let’s carry forward the warmth of gratitude and the spirit of change together.
Synagogue Vegan Challenge Updates
This month, we’re excited to showcase events from our Synagogue Vegan Challenge cohort! From cozy, fall Shabbat dinners to Sukkah decorating projects, our cohort continues to inspire us with their dedication to compassion. Look for inspiration and see how you can incorporate these practices into your own community.
“The program began with a beautiful Kabbalat Shabbat service in our backyard, where we introduced our purpose of the night. Our purpose is to introduce people of our community to a lifestyle of eating more plants as a tie to our self-preparation for the High Holiday season. The theme of High Holidays and Tishrei is all about teshuvah- returning; returning to ourselves. We framed this as returning to the Earth. Where are our roots, what has mother earth given us, how are we giving back, and why is it important. Zack and my way of giving back is eating a more plant-based diet. We talked about the environmental impact that eating animals has on the land, ocean, and all of its inhabitants. Out of this discussion came another interesting point of view about vegan processed foods for which there are chemicals and factories that cause pollution similarly to meat production facilities and farms. We came to an agreement that eating whole fruits and vegetables were truly the way for veganism and vegetarianism to make a lasting impact on the environment.”- Maggie
“We decorated our sukkah and also had an arts activity (making sukkah decorations) led by our Religious School director. The featured educational component was a talk from Rita York Hennecke, LJCC member and manager of the Merc Co-op. Rita spoke about her evolution from a devoted meat eater towards a fully vegetarian diet and her recent exploration of veganism. She spoke about her work at the Merc – about food distribution, food justice, and veganism as well about providing affordable choices while still pursuing an ethos of sustainability.” -Lara
“The event went well. It was a Thursday morning Shemini Atzeret service, with a Kiddush to follow. We served vegan appetizer platters catered from Black Sheep Deli, a local cafe down the street. We served breads (focaccia and crostini), a crudite platter with hummus and other vegan dips, and a vegan antipasto platter with roasted marinated vegetables. The educational component we included was a text study provided by Shamayim. Instead of having the text study available at the food tables, we put it at the front of the buffet line for people to see first, and I think that prompted more interest. Participants really appreciated this kiddush, and were interested in learning more about Shamayim.” -Melissa
Campus Fellowship Updates
The 2024-2025 semester is in full swing, and our amazing campus fellows are already making waves in their Jewish communities! We’re so excited to see how these passionate students will advocate for animals and inspire change on campus.
Our fellowship equips students with the skills to host events, both on-campus and online, focusing on the intersection of Judaism and animal welfare. From fun training calls to hands-on projects, they’re learning how to spark meaningful conversations and engage their peers in powerful ways.
Whether it’s tabling with eye-opening facts or hosting interactive events, our fellows are paving the way for a kinder world. We can’t wait to see all the creative ways they’ll make an impact this year!
- “We spoke about making vegan swaps and how easy it can be. We talked about the problems with the egg industry and how easy it can be to avoid them when possible. Participants loved the challah a some even thought it was better without egg.” -Miriam
- “It made me think about how hashem wanted the entire world to treat animals kindly and not just the Jewish people as part of the 7 commandments of Noah. Teaching others about animal rights I feel is doing my part in tikkun olam.” -Ortal
- “I also learned that rabbinical scholars believe that torturing animals is not an inherent human right, nor should it be done in excess. Were Jewish laws created in the modern day, under modern day circumstances, I can’t help but speculate if veganism would be required.”– Katherine
Upcoming Programs
Join us for an interfaith virtual panel discussion on veganism.
This virtual event aims to create a friendly, pluralistic dialogue among clergy members of various faiths, exploring the ethical aspects of veganism from different religious perspectives.
Thank you to Animal Interfaith Alliance, In Defense of Animals, and the Interfaith Vegan Coalition for co-hosting this program!
Plant-Based Thanksgiving: Tips, Recipes, and Resources
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to share the joy of plant-based meals with loved ones. In this section, we’re sharing our a sample vegan Thanksgiving menu, tips for hosting a vegan-friendly gathering, and ideas to make guests feel welcomed and satisfied. Don’t miss our guide on navigating conversations around plant-based choices with family and friends.
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Cover Photo by 涛 林: https://www.pexels.com/photo/rooster-standing-on-rock-in-natural-setting-29161881/
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