Living the Jewish calendar through the natural world

In November, students learned more about the winter forest by creating debris huts.

October, students attempted the “One Match Fire Challenge” while learning about Jewish teachings pertaining to fire.

Posted Thursday, February 6, 2020 9:34 pm

In the wilderness close to Congregation Torat Yisrael in East Greenwich, sixth- through eighth-grade Jewish Community Day School of Rhode Island students, alumni and other members of the community spend one Sunday afternoon a month outside, gaining wilderness and farming skills while living the Jewish calendar in its seasonal cycles.

Some of the skills they practice include fire building, shelter building, whittling, hiking, shepherding and animal care. They also learn about local flora and fauna and have the opportunity to take time for Hitbodedut, the practice of self-secluded Jewish meditation.

The program is called Teva PVD and it is taught by trained educators Rabbi Aaron Philmus and Tiferet Rose. To learn more and to sign up for upcoming sessions, email trose@jcdsri.com. Program dates include: Feb. 9, March 15, April 12, May 3, and June 7 from 12:45-5 p.m. Pickup and drop-off is in the Temple Emanu-El parking lot in Providence.

Adina Davies

Jewish Community Day School of Rhode Island