SHABBATASTIC!!!!

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by Rokki Parrinello, Tzofim Segel (Faculty) 

Tables set for 600 in the chadar ochel (dining hall) for Shabbat!

WOW, is all that I can say!! Shabbat at OSRUI always takes my breath away! It is such a joyous, lively, and spiritual time at camp. On Friday morning, most eidot (units) begin preparing for Shabbat by using their limmud (Judaic learning time) to do Shabbat prep. Often, the Chanichim (campers) learn Shabbat Z’mirot (songs), Isrealli rikkud (dancing), a Shabbat Sicha (discussion), a  Shabbat craft and sometimes even baking challah for Shabbat. In the afternoon, the chanichim get dressed for Shabbat and enjoy some extra M’nucha (rest time) together. Then Shabbat begins by the eidot being met at their Ohel (Tent)/ Tzrif (cabin) and walking together as a unit to their Beit T’filah for a beautiful Kabbalat Shabbat service. After services the entire camp eats a special Shabbat dinner in the Chadar Ochel (Dining Hall). Lastly, the evening ends with Shabbat Shira which is an unforgettable evening of songs, stories and ruach (spirit) !!!!!

On Saturday, the campers get to sleep in and enjoy a donut breakfast. Next they attend T’filah and listen to Torah being read. The whole camp enjoys a Shabbat picnic lunch together and rikkud on the hill .  Finally, the campers get to enjoy an afternoon at the agam (lake) and some extra Shabbat m’nucha.

For me, Shabbat at camp is a time of relaxation and spiritual renewal. To see all of the chanichim dressed in their Shabbat best , wearing smiles and filled with Shabbat ruach reminds me of why I am here as a Segel member at OSRUI. Being at camp truly helps each child connect to Judaism in a special way and enables them to develop and grow in their Jewish Identity.

Rokki Parrinello is the Religious School Co-Principal at Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates, Illinois and is serving as one of the faculty members in Tzofim Aleph.