There’s something undeniably magical about the first Shabbat of a session. That moment when the whole camp, dressed in white, walks together feels like stepping into sacred time. Whether it’s your first summer or your fifth, you can feel it—the shift from busy camp days into something slower, something sweeter.
This week, a summer storm rolled in just before Shabbat began, shifting our services into the Harris Center. Inside, the energy was warm, grounded, and filled with that unmistakable sense of “we’re home.”
Throughout the service, campers from every unit shared reflections on the theme of kehillah—community. From Tsofim: “Community means getting ready with my bunk and spending time together.” Kochavim campers described Shabbat as “a chance to wipe the canvas clean.” Bonim asked, “What’s your favorite Shabbat tradition?” and hands flew up for song session. Solelim reflected that Shabbat is “a time to rest and be together.” Kesher shared how growing up at Coleman has deepened their sense of freedom and connection. From Chalutzim: “Shabbat means the freedom to relax and be part of a kehillah kedoshah.” Nachshonim added, “When we all wear white, it represents peace.” And a Quest camper reminded us that everyone experiences Shabbat differently—and that’s exactly what makes it holy.
After services, the whole camp walked together from the Harris Center to the Dining Hall, where Shabbat dinner brought all the warmth and flavor of tradition. Our community was guided into Shabbat by our faculty and leadership. Rabbi Bryan Zive lit the candles, Rabbi Beth Nichols led Kiddush, the blessing over the children was offered by the Rabbi Jonathan Fisch and his family, and Rabbi Joanne Loiben led HaMotzi. Song session that followed was electric, with campers dancing, clapping, and lifting their voices as one. For those craving a quieter moment, Shalva offered a laid-back alternative—same ruach, just softer volume. And to close out the night, we gathered for another Coleman tradition: Friday Night Live, where campers share skits, stories, and a whole lot of laughs.
First Shabbat of the session: full of spirit, full of love, and full of the unmistakable joy of being together.
