Shabbat at Miriam
Shabbat at Miriam is a very special experience, one that stays with campers, and for many, has a life long impact on their Jewish identity and how they feel about Shabbat.
It starts on Friday afternoon when everyone cleans their cabins, showers and puts on their Shabbat clothes.
Camp families (mishpachot): A mishpacha is a group of related campers, together with other campers from the same city. The mishpacha (family) reflects together on the week that was and the week coming, sharing a special snack before Shabbat begins.
After Mishpachot, we all walk to The Point and sit on a grassy area, hear the Rosh tell a Shabbat/parasha related story, sing and welcome Shabbat, facing the ocean and the pre-sunset skies. We hug and say Shabbat Shalom to each other and head to the beach and the rocks for some free exploration and hanging with friends. We walk back to camp for Shabbat dinner (roasted chicken and potatoes, salad and Challah – yum!)
Oneg Shabbat: After dinner, the oldest campers, (Bonim) lead Shabbat singing, followed by a skit and songs done by one age group.
Rikud (Israeli Dancing): Everyone loves dancing late into the evening on Fridays! We learn traditional circle dances, modern line dances, and even make up our own! No previous experience or skill needed – counselors and older campers teach and escort new campers throughout dances, and make sure everyone is included. Campers often dress in funny/crazy colours and hairdos, and just have a ball!
On Shabbat morning we sleep in, early risers can go into the dining room for cinnamon buns and some serious Gaga game.
After breakfast, Chugim (Electives / Interest groups): Our Shabbat schedule is much more relaxed than the average day. There are multiple opportunities to choose special chugim (electives) to match different Shabbat vibes – reflective and calm, or fun and wacky adventures!
Shabbat special activity is walking to Twin Beaches for an afternoon of games and fun at the beach.
Asepha Klalit (camp wide meeting): this meeting is run by the Mazkirim (elected campers) bringing all campers together to voice their opinions and have a say in what happens at camp. Each kvutza gets a chance to report back to everyone on how their week was and what their favorite activities were. Notes are taken and the mazkirim meet with the Director afterward to provide the feedback. After the Asepha, we all walk back to camp.
Zman Madatz: To make Shabbat even more special, the Madatz (CITs) plan and run special games and activities.
Musicale: During Musicale, campers have a chance to perform in front of the rest of camp – they can play an instrument, sing, or read poetry. It’s a fantastic opportunity to share musical and poetic passions in a warm and supportive environment.
Havdallah: Havdallah marks the end of Shabbat on Saturday night. Miriam’s Havdallah is one of the campers favourite traditions, when the entire camp comes together to sing the Havdallah songs, light the Havdallah candles, reflect, and listen to music.
‘Medurah’ (Bonfire) is another wonderful chance for campers to showcase their talents or just be goofy! These performances, unlike Musicale, are geared towards comedy, skits and dancing. Oldest campers play hosts in our SNL-style showcase.
