In congregations around the world, every fall, Jewish communities read the early chapters of the Book of Genesis, the first of the five books of Moses. One of these early stories is the story of Noah and the Ark. Many of us grew up on this story, played with miniature models of the ark, arranged the tiny paired animals and played make believe with the toy figures of the family of Noah. This fall, in a three-part education series, we will mine this story for what it has to say about climate crisis. We will ask the audacious question, “Are the lessons we learned from the Noah story actually helpful in this day and age?”

Session One: Reading Noah’s Ark with Fresh Eyes

Participants will have the opportunity to read the biblical story of Noah from beginning to end. Even if you have read this story before in the past, you will now bring the lens of someone at this stage of life in this historical moment to the ancient story. Who knows what new perspectives and concerns you might hold now? In our learning circle we will gather up reflections and questions and hear about some historical Jewish teachings about the story of Noah.

Assignment:

Genesis 6:5 - 9:17  The Story of Noah

What stands out for you?

What do you find troubling?

What message does this story have for today?

Sessions 2 and 3 will be on November 19 and December 17, at the same time. Please attend Session One even if you can't attend all three sessions.

This program is free, although a donation of $18 is suggested for guests who are not LHI members to attend these programs.

Information for this and all online events will automatically be sent to LHI members, who do not need to register.

LHI guests are welcome, and can request the Zoom information by registering here at least one day in advance, or contact us at info@leyvhair.org or 215-629-1995.