The next morning we had a delicious breakfast, and left the camp at around 9 o'cklock to go tubbing. I think that it was an amazing idea to do this with the Israelis, since the majority of them have never even seen snow! After having our fun, we went back to the eating area for lunch. The Canadians were told to sit with Israelis, and this was a chance for us to find out what foods they like along with other personal stuff. I thought that this was a great moment to bond not only with the Israelis, but with people from our own cohort as well.
When we arrived back at camp, everyone got ready for Shabbat. We sang songs that were new to us but will certainly stay with us for the future, and then the Israelis mentioned that they always pick a 'mother' and 'father' to lead Shabbat. Chelsea was chosen as mother and lead the candle lighting, while Pavel was chosen as father and lead the Kiddush as well as HaMotzi. This was followed by prayers, during which a few of the girls helped the staff prepare delicious salads!
Shabbat dinner officially started, so we ate tasty food and sang altogether. Afterward, our Junior Councillors planned a scavenger hunt where we learned about Jews in the diaspora by performing tasks and searching for clues throughout the camp! That night, we made our bond stronger but didn't get a lot of sleep...
For me, one of the best parts of the Shabbaton was the alternative prayer service that Katherine and Alon ran on Saturday morning. After they explained the meaning behind each section of the service, whoever wanted to talk went in front of the 'congregation' and spoke about what meaning a particular prayer held for them. Each person's turn was followed by an 'Amen'.I didn't get the chance to go up and talk, but it touched me to hear stories from members of both cohorts and it was special to know that we all trust and respect one another with whatever anyone has to say. Everyone has a different background, and it is beautiful to see us all bring in something that makes our partnership unique. I feel that this activity enforced the connection between Jews in the diaspora and Jews in the Holy Land.
After lunch, some activities that were planned by us, and Havdallah, we cleaned up and started making our way back home. The bus ride was certainly not boring! Some of the teens decided to make a Harlem Shake video which didn't end up working, but it was nice to watch everyone participate and trying to make it work. Others played guitar and sang songs, while some simply talked to those they didn't get to know yet.
This was the best Shabbaton I've ever had, and I'm glad that I experienced it with my wonderful new family.
By: Megan Levy
Megan bravo!! כל הכבוד!
ReplyDelete