As the sun begins to set over Camp Coleman on the evening after Opening Day, the entire camp community gathers for one of our most cherished traditions: the Torah Pass.
Following dinner and before Tefillah, campers and staff from every unit come together, forming one circle that represents the heart of our Camp Coleman family. The excitement of Opening Day has settled into the comfort of new friendships, familiar faces, and the feeling that camp has officially begun.
At the center of the gathering is our Torah.
The ceremony begins with members of our Year Round team, who carefully hold the Torah before passing it to Machon, our Counselors-in-Training. From there, the Torah continues its journey through each unit: Chalutzim, Kesher, Nachshonim, Tsofim, Solelim, Kochavim, and finally Bonim, our youngest campers.
Before each unit receives the Torah, its Unit Heads share a reflection about what that stage of the Camp Coleman journey represents. They speak about the growth, friendships, responsibilities, and experiences that define each unit, helping campers understand how every summer builds upon the last. From the excitement of a first summer in Bonim to the leadership and mentorship found in Machon, each unit plays an important role in our camp community.
As the Torah is gently passed from one set of hands to the next, it becomes far more than a scroll.
It represents the passing of Jewish tradition, values, and community from one generation to the next. It reminds every camper that they are part of something much bigger than themselves—a community connected by shared experiences, lifelong friendships, and a love for Jewish life.
As parents, imagine watching your camper standing alongside hundreds of other children and staff, quietly waiting as the Torah makes its way around the Hillman Chapel. Each handoff is filled with intention, each reflection reminds campers why they belong, and each passing of the Torah connects every generation of Camp Coleman.
It is a beautiful moment of unity. No matter a camper’s age, every person gathered shares in the same tradition, the same values, and the same commitment to carrying Judaism forward together.
The Torah Pass marks more than the beginning of another camp session. It marks the beginning of a shared journey—one rooted in connection, leadership, belonging, and tradition.
At Camp Coleman, this is how we begin our summer together: honoring those who came before us, celebrating those who stand beside us, and inspiring the next generation to carry our traditions forward, l’dor v’dor—from generation to generation.
