Why did GJC create an Eruv?
- Periodically over the last 25 years, members of GJC have raised the possibility of creating an eruv for this community as a way of enhancing their and others’ Shabbat practice, and for some prospective members who have inquired about moving here over this time, the absence of an eruv has been a dealbreaker. Although there are several eruvin in Philadelphia and its suburbs, they are all in different areas of the city and operate under Orthodox auspices, as do the overwhelming number of eruvin. What would it mean for GJC to establish an eruv that reflected our values, was established through the efforts of our member volunteers, and operated under the authority of our rabbi? Focusing on this question, in 2018, Rabbi Zeff and a committee of GJC members who valued the idea of a GJC Eruv began exploring how to create one of our own.
How often is the GJC Eruv checked, and where can I find a status update?
- The GJC Eruv is checked by a group of member volunteers every Thursday. The status of the GJC Eruv is posted in GJC’s Friday “This Coming Shabbat” email as well as on our website. You can see the status of the GJC Eruv and the date it was last checked here.
Are there restrictions on what I can carry within the GJC Eruv?
- Yes. Anything that can normally be handled and used on Shabbat can be carried within the GJC Eruv, including house keys, tallitot, personal effects, clothing, and food. Baby carriages and strollers can also be used within the eruv. The eruv does not give license to carry things that are not normally handled and used on Shabbat, such as cell phones, money, wallets, writing implements, and the like.
Under whose rabbinic authority was the GJC Eruv created?
- The GJC Eruv was created and operates under the authority of the Rabbi of GJC, Rabbi Adam Zeff. Please contact him for any legal questions about the GJC Eruv, including the standards used to create it and how it operates and is maintained.
How can I get involved with checking and maintaining the GJC Eruv?
- The GJC Eruv always needs volunteers to help check and maintain it. To get involved, please contact the GJC office and they will direct you to the current volunteer coordinator.
Are there costs associated with maintaining the GJC Eruv? How can I contribute to its maintenance?
- Yes. Periodically the parts of the GJC Eruv that are attached to PECO poles need to be replaced, which requires hiring a contractor approved by PECO to do the work, as well as a small cost for the parts required. The cost averages about $1,000 per year. You can contribute to the cost of this maintenance by donating to the Eruv fund (under the Religious category) on our donations page or sending a check to the GJC office indicating that is for the Eruv fund.
GJC Eruv Status Update
The History of the GJC Eruv
The History and Meaning of an Eruv
Halachic Guidelines
Map PDF
Questions? Contact Rabbi Adam Zeff.