There’s something about that first Shabbat of the session. Maybe it’s the sea of white outfits. Maybe it’s the shofar echoing across camp, calling us together. Maybe it’s the brown betty. Whatever it is, week one delivered.
As the sun began to set over the lake, campers and staff made their way to Hillman Chapel, guided by the sound of the shofar. One of our faculty members sounded it loud and proud, setting the tone for an evening full of intention and celebration. We gathered for t’fillah, surrounded by water, trees, and community. And together we felt the heart of Coleman beating.
As part of services, Amy shares words of reflection and celebration, typically, recognizing campers who were observed by staff living out our core four Jewish values during the week. We also honor our Torah Carriers, staff members nominated by their supervisors, who lead our Shabbat Walk up to the Chadar Ochel. Because of weather, we shifted plans, but not spirit! We quickly walked to the dining hall where Amy honored our campers.
The tables were set with white cloths, braided challah, grape juice, and our classic Shabbat menu: fried chicken, roasted veggies, matza ball soup, and apple brown betty. Before the meal we were led in blessing by faculty members adn their families – Beth Blick blessed the candles, Rabbi Asher Knight and Rabbi Ana Bonheim led us in kiddush, Rabbi Adam Miller guided our staff in blessing the campers, and Rabbi Daniel Alter led the motzi. Camp felt like one big family table.
After dinner, Amy recognized the Torah Carriers who led an alternative Shabbat walk from the dining hall to the Harris Center. There songleaders led us in a ruach-packed song session. Campers sang, danced, and celebrated the spirit of Shabbat. For those looking for a more relaxed evening, we offered Shabbat Shalva — an alternative space filled with acoustic music, nature, and calm connection.
This week at Shalva, some Bonim girls recreated a full service, calling each other up to the “bima” as rabbis and leaders, singing their favorite prayers. They also acted out the folktale It Could Always Be Worse, giggling their way through chickens, goats, and very squished family members. We wrapped things up with an interactive story and a group storytelling game that had everyone laughing and leaning in.
To close the night, we all came together to watch our first Friday Night Live (FNL) video of the summer, made by campers and staff. It was a perfect end to a meaningful, magical first Shabbat.
Shabbat shalom from Camp Coleman — the joy, the ruach, and the challah crumbs on our shirts.
