Oseh Shalom is a vibrant and inclusive Reconstructionist Jewish congregation whose members live across the Baltimore-Washington region.

Our commitment to Creation Care started with the initial design of the building to include large windows, a dome, and skylights to fill our sacred space with natural light, as well as interior atria filled with greenery.

Our congregation initiated a Green Committee more than 10 years ago to identify suitable sustainable practices. To that end, we introduced recycling, replaced hot water heaters with two tankless systems, and used renewable resources for new flooring. We use energy efficient lighting where feasible and rely on compostable items in our kitchen.

Since 2011, Oseh Shalom has celebrated Sukkot with a Farm to Sukkah dinner featuring locally sourced food and wine. Our grounds include a Biblical garden, rain gardens, native tree canopy and a pollinator garden. We have also recently designated part of our property for a restorative meadow project.

Since August 2021, Oseh Shalom has had a rabbinic intern who will lead age-appropriate and interactive outdoor experiences connecting our Religious School students to the Earth, Torah and other Jewish texts/liturgy. She will also work with the congregation on similar activities and to build on projects that are already in place. To learn more about this congregation, click here.