Inter-Faith Network of Calgary meeting at the Beth Tzedec Synagogue

On October 15, 2009 the Inter-Faith Network of Calgary (IFNC) met at the Beth Tzedec Synagogue.

Azim Jivraj, the Muslim representative on the executive of IFNC, provided the following summary of the session:

Topics to be discussed were "What is the spiritual significance of climate change and humanity's role in it; what can I and my faith group do about climate change, etc."

The evening started with a short presentation by Mishka Lysack, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary. He briefed us on the then upcoming Meeting and Retreat on "Climate Change as a Moral Issue" on Oct 25 and 26 respectively.

Rabbi Saul Osadchey mentioned it was the ethical responsibility of all faiths to look after the environment as mentioned in all major scriptures. He mentioned the following:

• Shabbat Noach, when Jews around the world read the Torah portion about the Flood, the Ark and the Rainbow, comes on October 23-24. Torah passages remind Jews to focus on the danger of destruction of life on our planet and actions they need to take to preserve life
• The Rabbinical Assembly, in conjunction with Shabbat Noach, cosponsored Global Climate Healing Shabbat on October 23-24
• Suggested Jews should pledge to integrate education, action and advocacy about environment and sustainability
• Shared "Greening Synagogues Resources" compiled by Rabbi Fred Scherlinder e.g. use programmable thermostats divided by zones in buildings, reduce heating and cooling by 1 degree, reuse and recycle, teach children about nature and Judaism together, teach adults Creation topics together with Torah teachings
• Jewish law has long dealt with environmental matters e.g Bal Tashkhit prohibits needless destruction of resources, Human beings are "shomrim" i.e. protectors or guardians of earth
• Shared some Jewish texts from Deuteronomy, Talmud of Babylonia, Maimonides on biodiversity and human responsibility

General discussion followed the presentation. Items discussed included environmental impact of the oil sands, urban sprawl, responsibility of individuals and institutions, changes must be made at home, current trend towards materialism i.e. enjoy resources but at what cost, practice moderation, etc.