Shavua tov! Our group had an amazing Shabbat which was enjoyable, had delicious food, and give us opportunities for much needed rest and relaxation. We brought in Shabbat with a packed hotel filled with guests from all over Israel. We lit candles in the lobby--first for Hanukkah and then for Shabbat.
We had a wonderful group activity before Shabbat dinner where we discussed each person ‘s past experience with Shabbat, and different ways people experience Shabbat. For some, this was their first Shabbat experience; others enjoy Shabbat diners with family; some eat special challah at home; some recounted summer camp Shabbat experiences.
Shabbat dinner was very festive. We started with Kiddush and hamotzi and really felt the Shabbat spirit and mood in the air as there were hundreds of guests sharing the dining room with us!
After dinner we went back to our group meeting room, and participated in an activity which our three Israeli soldiers planned. We learned about and experienced games Israelis play, and they sang songs which are currently popular, including two by singer Omer Adam. Once the formal program ended, some chose to go to sleep, and others stayed awake to play cards, eat snacks and socialize.
Everybody was very happy with our late wake up this morning, and the chance to come to breakfast anytime they wanted as long as they arrived at our 11 o’clock activity on time. One participant and staff member even experienced a spirited minyan in the hotel synagogue with about 50 people and readings from 3 torah scrolls!
At our 11 a.m. activity, we had a great time learning about the weekly Torah portion and coming up with skits of the Joseph story. We focused on Parshat Miketz where Joseph offers interpretations of Pharaoh’s dreams. We have some real creative talent in our group!
Many in the group enjoyed the chance to walk five minutes to a wonderful indoor pool while others chilled, socialized and rested. Lunch was also very delicious and filling.
The group had another interesting activity this afternoon on identity and Jewish identity. When the identity activity concluded, it was time or Havdalah, the beautiful ceremony with grape juice, spices and a multi-wicked candle which ends Shabbat. We went outside in the beautiful hotel courtyard and could really see the stars and constellations! We the lit Hanukkah candles, had dinner and headed out to the Old City of Jerusalem.
In past years, we have gone to a light and sound show in Jerusalem. While some had a good time, many found it hard to follow the events in Jewish history being presented, and it was usually cold sitting outside. This year, we realized we had a golden opportunity to have our first Old City and Kotel experience on 7th night of Chanukah. We knew there would be dozens of oil menorahs burning outside of people’s homes.
We got off the bus at the Zion Gate and our guide, Rony, gave us an important overview of the history of Jerusalem and its importance to Jews, Christians and Muslims. We saw where the Last Supper was held and where King David was buried. We then walked through the Old City, saw the Cardo, the view of the city from the rooftops, and of course, we had 20 minutes for personal Kotel time. Everyone put notes in the Kotel, and some gave tzedakah.
While it was a late night, everyone seemed very pleased at our Jerusalem adventure!
Tomorrow, we set out after breakfast for the North. We will visit a chocolate factory and an olive oil factory while also taking in sights on the Golan Heights. It is hard to predict how the Wi-Fi will be in the north. It may be a source of frustration for participants if it is not strong, and it may even make it hard to post these daily blogs. If that is the case, please be assured we are having a great time and participants are well. We look forward to sharing more blogs and photos soon!
Happy Chanukah and Chodesh Tov