Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Grade 5 & 6 Retreat

Grade 5 & 6 Retreat

The Grade 5 & 6 students had a fantastic time on their Retreat, March 6-7. The Retreat began with candle lighting and Shabbat dinner, followed by a creative service led by TEMTY's Religious and Cultural Vice President, Samantha Eisner (TEMTY is our high school youth group). During the service we watched sign-a-long videos of contemporary songs that expressed the ideas of the prayers.

Image result for burger king in israel 

Then, we went on an amazing scavenger hunt, during which we found "artifacts" from modern day Israel. We learned how life in Israel is very similar to life in the United States!

After a night hike and stories and songs with Rabbi Denker and Cantor Lawrence, it was off to bed!

The next morning, we started with breakfast and Shabbat morning services. Then, we had our very own Amazing Race, during which we traveled through time to meet different important historical figures from Israel's past.


In one station, we built the Temple with King Solomon.


In another, Abraham welcomed us into his tent.


We met with Golda Meir to talk about all of the different cultures that exist in the land of Israel.


We heard from two chalutzot (female pioneers) to learn about the challenges that they faced.


And we talked with Yochanan Ben Zakkai, who shared with us how Judaism transformed following the description of the Second Temple. 


During free time, we enjoyed time outside...


...the weather was beautiful...


...and despite the cold...


...we loved enjoying the sunshine...


...with our friends!

Our Retreat concluded with a program that explored different cities in Israel. We palyed volleyball on the beach in Tel Aviv to made chamsas in Tzfat and learned to play Sheshbesh (backgammon) in a Bedouin tent in the Negev and bartered for spices in the shuk in the Old City.

Last, but not least, we enjoyed Israeli food and a beautiful Havdallah service before getting on the bus to go home. It was a wonderful overnight!!


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