By Rokki Parrinello, Co-Principal of Religious School, Beth Tikvah Congregation in Hoffman Estates, and Tzofim Segel
All of the Tzofim chanichim (campers) are having a fantastic time at camp! They are truly “digging” camp this summer. The Limmud topic in Tzofim Aleph is archeology. The chanichim have experienced both figurative and literal digging throughout their day at camp.
During T’filah the chanichim have been digging into the meaning behind the prayers we say together at camp. As they learn more about each piece of our service they find ways to personally connect to what they are saying. Our goal is that while at OSRUI the chanichim learn that prayer is not just about recitation but it is truly about personalization and developing ways to make T’filah meaningful for themselves.
The chanichim have also spent time digging into the Torah. They spent time digging into different Torah Parshiot (portions) searching for clues to help interpret the past. After reading their Parsha each group brainstormed a list of possible artifacts that could have been left behind based on their own Midrashim (interpretations) of the Parsha. Next, they worked together to design and build artifacts that could have been left behind. It was amazing to see their creativity and unique interpretations.
This week the chanichim had the opportunity to participate in an archeological dig at OSRUI. The chanichim unearthed artifacts in the OSRUI Tel. They found images from the past 60 years, ritual objects from the past, as well as many other camp related items in the Tel. It was incredible to see how quickly the chanichim were able to create stories to explain OSRUI’s past and what camp might have been like if they had been a camper from earlier decades. They were astonished to learn about the many differences between the campers from the past, to the campers of today!
The remarkable opportunities our chanichim have to develop their Jewish identities and opportunities to create connections at camp, will keep our digging camp for many years to come!