By Cantor Jennifer Frost and Jay Rapoport, RJE, Tiferet Segel (Faculty)

Tiferet Aleph has been on an extraordinary journey that includes middot (values), t’filah (prayer), and a deep dive into our theme, Midrashim (stories based on biblical text) from Bereshit (Genesis) Rabbah, inspired by the first book of Torah.

Here are a few highlights from our journey so far:

Inspired by Lech Lecha, focusing on the beginning of Abraham’s journey, our three studios – visual art, drama, and music – gathered for a collaboration. Chanichim (campers) were encouraged by the moomchim (specialists) to reflect on a moment in their journey through words or illustration, finding their own space on a giant roll of paper spread around our Mercaz Omanut (Arts Center). We continued to explore the characters of Genesis through a Midrash fashion show (or “Midrashion Show” as they named it). Chanichim created a narrative through costumes of paper, bubble wrap and masking tape depicting moments of transformation from their character’s journey.

During the past week we have focused on the middah of kavod (respect), making connections throughout our days, during studio time, and in t’filah. Chanichim wrote and shared their own reflections connecting kavod to t’filot. We also celebrated America’s birthday as a whole camp by gathering to sing folk songs, followed by viewing a spectacular fireworks show on Bayit Hill. We concluded the week with a celebration of Shabbat, culminating in Tiferet hosting the 2019 Mesibah, the first all-camp performance in our new Heichal HaTarbut Kaye, featuring talent from all of the eidot (units), and with a little help from the Marvel heroes too. As our chanichim continue to explore Bereshit Rabbah in their final week, we look forward to continued inspiration from their artistic journeys as expressed through their creations!