Something we say all of the time at GFC, is that “Camp is the Shabbat of the year.” While this statement always rings true, it holds more weight this summer than it has ever before. Shabbat is the 7th day – the day of rest. It is the day at the end of each week, when we take a step back, unplug, and are fully present in every moment. We say the Shabbat blessings, welcoming the milestone in our week, and asking God to spread a shelter of peace over us all.
As the school year comes to a close and the Shabbat of the year approaches, the rituals we engage in are the milestones of our year. We prepare camp for the arrival of our community as we prepare ourselves in our Shabbat whites each week.
We look forward to welcoming Shabbat with you and blessing the challah, candles, wine, and each other – all together once again. This Shabbat, we want to offer something extra – a new Shabbat blessing for this very special year:
May the one who blessed our ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sara, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah bless all of these campers as they go off to summer camp.
May the transition from school to camp be seamless and full of positivity, friendship, happiness, and fun.
May the challenges faced in the last year be behind us, and may the camp experience be a shelter of peace in all of our lives.
May God watch over us and keep us healthy and safe, allowing us to run, play, and create new memories under the stars in the sky.
May we have the courage to try new things, the heart to create strong friendships, the eyes to see the best in others, and the spirit to sing and dance together each day.
May this summer allow us to grow into the best versions of ourselves, and may this summer be remembered for the rest of our lives. Amen.