This week’s Shabbat began with sunlight glinting off the lake as the shofar echoed from the Hillman Chapel. Campers and staff gathered overlooking the water, breathing in the stillness before Shabbat and letting the week roll off their shoulders. It was one of those evenings where you could feel the pause settling in.
After a beautiful service, we began our walk to the Dining Hall. The walk was led by our incredible songleaders and this week’s honored Torah carriers—staff who had gone above and beyond for our community. One of our Torah carriers wasn’t able to join the walk due to being in the Health Center, but their presence was deeply felt.
Before dinner, we welcomed Shabbat with blessings led by Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker (Kiddush), Rabbi Jessica Jacobs (blessing the children), and Rabbi Michael Birnholz (HaMotzi). We gathered quickly for dinner, knowing weather was rolling in fast. Fried chicken made its traditional appearance (a crowd favorite), and the matzo ball soup? Let’s just say it’s entered its comeback era.
With “weather” on the horizon, we shifted Birkat Hamazon into the Harris Center and went straight into song session. It was loud, it was wild, and it was full of that signature Coleman ruach. For those looking for a quieter space, Shalva offered the same spirit in a more relaxed setting—just as joyful, a little less volume.
The night wrapped with Friday Night Live, where campers brought their creativity, laughter, and a few unforgettable skits to the screen. From peaceful lake views to clapping under cover from the rain, Shabbat brought us together again—with full hearts, full bellies, and a full dose of Coleman magic.
