Last week was the new year for trees and a new beginning for the community of Barnet shul. Newly appointed Rabbi Moshe Chaim Lister led the shul’s first ever Tu Bishvat Seder, made possible with the generous help of a grant from the Chief Rabbi’s Office.
Over 90 members and guests enjoyed the simanim, the various species of fruits, nuts and fragrant spices as well as red and white wine, traditionally blessed at this time of year.
Rabbi Lister explained that whilst in this country it still feels like winter, in Israel, the sap is beginning to appear in trees, signalling the arrival of spring and the Rosh Hashanah of trees.
He added: “The sap’s movement, as opposed to the budding of blossoms, teaches us that growth begins in the most seemingly tiny and humble of ways – one small step can lead to tremendous achievements.”
Volunteers read from a large on-screen Haggadah, in line with the shul’s goal for events to be paper-free and as an example of its EcoJudaism Silver Award status.
After a delicious vegetarian dinner, there was a superb audio-visual presentation by dynamic and inspiring environmentalist Shiri Atsmon, winner of Barnet Council’s InspirationALL Women’s Award 2023 – Environment and Sustainability Category, as well as Unlock Net Zero Awards Winner, Climate Champion of the Year Public and Third Sector 2024.
Shiri explained about the fascinating Finchley Pollinator Project and Eco Show and Tell initiative. Echoing the Rabbi’s reference to the tree sap, Shiri also described how we can all make small but meaningful changes towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
At the end of the presentation, Donna Cohen, Eco Lead at Barnet Shul as well as Sustainability Lead for EcoJudaism presented Israeli-born Shiri with a dedicated copy of the Eco Bible co-written by Rabbi Leo Dee.
Donna commented: “This event was a resounding success for Barnet shul. There was such an amazing ruach and the positivity was palpable. As always in Barnet, it was a team effort and the community’s legendary enthusiasm and goodwill shone through. Particular thanks go to Vice Chair, Natalie Shaw for leading the event, creating the magnificent seder plates and decorating the tables with beautiful greenery to capture the spirit of Tu Bishvat. It was a truly uplifting, impactful and unforgettable occasion enjoyed by all.”
