We are rescheduling this event for the following year, and look forward to seeing you at other events we’re planning in LA.

New Year for Animals

A Celebration of Compassion

Join Stephanie Dreyer and Jewish Vegan Life for a soulful evening of reflection, compassion, and community.

Did you know that Judaism has four New Years—including one for animals? While Rosh Hashanah and Tu B’Shvat often steal the spotlight,  Rosh Hashanah La’Beheimot, the New Year for the Animals, falls on the first of the Hebrew month of Elul and invites us to reflect on the sacred interconnection between humans and animals.

Together, we will enjoy an inspiring evening of community, a shared delicious meal, rich discussion, ritual, and we revive this ancient tradition with new purpose and honor for the creatures who share our world.

Featuring special guest speaker: Rabbi Jonathan Bernard

Delicious plant-based dinner included – Come hungry! A nourishing, fully plant-based meal will be served. 

About Rabbi Jonathan Bernhard

After 25 wonderful years at Adat Ari El, Rabbi Jonathan Bernhard decided to step away from the pulpit to explore new and meaningful ways of contributing to the Jewish community. This journey has led him to become the Director of Clergy Engagement at the Center for Jewish Food Ethics, the co-founder the Valley Chevra Kadisha, as well as work toward bringing green burial practices to the Jewish community and train as a death doula. And in June of 2025, Jonathan became the rabbi at Temple Shalom of the South Bay. He and his wife Laurie live in the San Fernando Valley and they have 3 grown sons, 2 goofy dogs, and 4 noisy chickens.