USCJ Northern California Region to Sponsor Two Environmental Learning Retreats

The Northern California Region of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) is sponsoring two unique retreats combining the study of Torah, Jewish environmental ethics and sightseeing.

"Yosemite + Torah = A Spiritual Journey" will be held in Yosemite National Park in California this summer, August 21 - 24, 2003. "Hawaii: Creation in Paradise" will take place December 10 -15, 2003. The trips are open to members of USCJ congregations.

According to Judy Yudof, International President of the United Synagogue, "While the United Synagogue offers many learning experiences on the congregational, regional and national level, these trips are the first of their kind."

Jay Weiner, Director of the Northern California Region, notes that participants will enjoy some of the most diverse and pristine environments in the world under the supervision of professional tour guides. Torah study for both programs will be led by Rabbi Allan Berkowitz, Conservative rabbi and environmental educator.

The trips will use the forests, mountains, rivers and beaches as a starting point for exploration into environmental ethics. Rabbi Jerome Epstein, USCJ Executive Vice-President, points out that "the intense natural beauty of the land will give participants a sense of the blessings and sanctity of God?s creation. It will help develop their awareness and appreciation of Judaism and the environment as well as how Judaism values and respects the natural world."

The three-day trip to Yosemite includes sightseeing to Tioga Pass and Tuolome Meadows as well nature walks with a Yosemite naturalist. Outdoor study sessions will take place in the meadows and atop 8000-foot Sentinel Dome. Accommodations are in vacation cabins in the Park. The cost is $425 per person (double occupancy) and includes all meals.

Among the activities of the Hawaii retreat are professionally guided tours of volcanoes and a rainforest, programs on Hawaiian culture and nature walks. Accommodations are in vacation condos and a B & B at the foot of a volcano. The cost is $1839 (double occupancy) and includes airfare (from the West coast) and meals. There is an option to add additional days.

For more information about these programs, contact the USCJ Northern California Region, 1-888-321-8725, e-mail NCALIF@uscj.org.