This Shabbat was pure Coleman magic — all sunshine, no clouds, and plenty to celebrate.
We kicked things off with services overlooking the lake. The shofar blew — thanks to Adam Miller — to let everyone know it was time to gather. It was a big moment, as Adam also marked his 50th birthday and his final summer as Chair of the Faculty Advisory Board. Toward the end of services, Amy spoke about bravery — trying new things and stepping into the unfamiliar with strength and heart.
Our Shabbat walk to the Chadar Ochel was peaceful and musical, with guest guitarists (Chal campers!) leading the way. The blessings before dinner were led by a few of our cherished faculty families: Beth Blick and her family lit the candles, Rabbi Melissa Stollman and her family led Kiddush, Rabbi Matt Durbin and his family shared the Blessing of the Children, and Rabbi Jordan Ottenstein and family wrapped it up with Hamotzi.
Dinner was delicious. The Brown Betty? Maybe a cobbler. We’re working on it.
Shabbat Shira followed, and once again ended in a crowd-pleasing “Wonderwall” encore. This week, we shuffled the flow so announcements came before Shema and Hashkiveinu — and honestly, it worked.
Meanwhile, our Shalva campers had their own beautiful Shabbat experience. Yael came and taught them “Miskafayim” at the beginning, which was super cute. They were more confident during our singalong and even made up new hand motions. Rachel Glazer told a Shabbat story, and everyone shared a spark of joy from their week — things like seeing everyone walk to Shabbat dinner in white, singing with friends at services, and learning new songs.
Saturday morning brought a beautiful and peaceful Machon Shabbat.
This Shabbat reminded us what makes Coleman feel like home.
