Montgomery County synagogue congregations that took services outdoors during the pandemic are now experiencing a new sense of spirituality and connectedness out there. Even as the health crisis ebbs, many are still worshiping apart from their buildings. Jarrad Saffren reported the trend in the Philadelphia Jewish Exponent.

Among those opting for the open air is the congregation of Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley.

Prior to the pandemic, its summer Shabbat services were set in a nearby field. But attendance was decidedly light.

Once COVID-19 presented the al fresco worship option, the lawn setting caught on.

The Har Zion Temple average turnout this year rose from 10 to 30, a 200-percent jump.

Member Gary Charlestein hinted at the spiritual benefit of synagogue congregations praising God while surrounded by his natural gifts.

“Being close to nature is always a good thing…,” he said. “You feel the air; you hear the birds; it’s all good.”

More local congregations are finding that out, too.

Temple Brith Achim, King of Prussia, occasionally gathered in nearby Lower Perkiomen Valley Park. But in the thick of the health crisis, the community used the spot even in winter.

It’s been such a success, the temple is planning to construct a pavilion on its property to continue its fresh-air services.

Other area synagogue congregations opting to gather in a natural setting are covered in the Philadelphia Jewish Exponent.