Our hearts have been heavy since we heard the news from Israel on October 7th. As we have continued to show support for our community in Israel, we have also heard from many GFC families worried about our Mishlachat (Israeli staff members). The relationships our campers and staff form with our Israeli delegation each summer is watching ‘camp magic’ unfold in real time. These friendships truly last a lifetime and help grow our connection to Israel even more.
We have spoken to many of our past Mishlachat members over the last few weeks and will continue to stay in touch. This week, with the help of Ron Bernstein, we are able to bring you a special Shabbat Message from members of our 2023 Mishlachat.
Ron Bernstein, known to our current campers as Saba (grandpa) Ron, was our Rosh Mishlachat (head of the Israeli delegation) this past summer. He has been a beloved member of our camp community for many years, running our garden in the summer, and sharing endless stories from Israel over his special tea and cookies. Ron, known as Ranger Ron at Timna Park or Pomelo Ron at Kibbutz Yahel, has helped house many families displaced from the current war. He has also been a line between us and our Israeli community. We thank Saba Ron this week, for helping bring these messages to you.
On each Friday night at Camp, we have a tradition, for our counselors to cover their campers with their bunk talit (prayer shawl) and bless them. Below are the English words we repeat as a community. We hope you find comfort in this blessing this week.
May God bless you and watch over you,
May God’s face shine upon you and be very good to you,
May God be with you always,
And grant you,
and me,
and the whole camp,
and the whole world,
with the blessing of peace.
Amen.
Shabbat Shalom,
The Greene Team
Morgan, Shira, Lisa, Linda, Erin, Eli, Marissa, Daniella, and Beau