by Libby Fisher, Communications Manager

This blessing for chanichim (campers) heading to OSRUI this summer was originally posted by Rabbi Phyllis Sommer on her blog in 2011. To see her current blog, visit Ima On (and Off) the Bima!

From the OSRUI Camp Song:

Every year we venture back to the place we were before

And though our lives may differ we share a bond forever more

All year we sit in classrooms and we have to wonder why

Our summers are so special at OSRUI. 

May it be Your will, Lord our God, that you depart on your way to camp in peace and may your steps be guided in the way of peace. May you find learning and growth along the way, may you make new friends, renew old friendships, and learn more about yourself. May the mosquitoes be guided away from you, and may the raindrops not fall into your cabin or tent. May you enjoy your screen-free time more than you’ll admit. May the food be delicious and the pool the right temperature, and may you seek out new experiences and try new things. May you return home in one piece with all your belongings, and may you ever yearn to return to the land of OSRUI.

And let us say: Amen.

Rabbi Phyllis Sommer works as the Director of Congregational Learning at Am Shalom in Glencoe, IL, and she spends part of every summer at OSRUI as part of our segel (staff)!