Tuesday, July 27
The camp is swept up by messianic fervor! Today the campers learned about Rabbi Akiva and his persistent optimism, and discussed why he supported Bar Kochva when he rose to power. In shiur, they learned about Rabbi Akiva’s impressive perseverance to learn Torah at the age of 40, and the way he kept up his spirits when so many of his students died. No wonder he believed in Bar Kochva’s potential to bring about a positive change for the Jewish people.
Later in the day, the Bar Kochva revolt came to life when Rabbi Akiva and Bar Kochva traveled around camp in a wagon, passing out flyers and drumming up support for their cause!
At night, each chanich/a learned the ins and outs of being a member of Bar Kochva’s recruits! In round-robin fashion around camp, campers learned what it takes to be a part of a spy mission, how to transfer supplies, and other useful skills they will need to fight against the Romans.
In other news, chanichim enjoyed another full day of peulot (activities). A favorite spot at camp is the agam (lake) where campers have the opportunity to choose from kayaking, swimming, jumping on several trampolines in the lake and trying to cross the “shekem log”. Those who make it across are rewarded with double shekem!!
Kaytana came home this morning from their very own Lina (overnight)! Late on Monday afternoon, Kaytana went on a short walk to their Lina site, where they set up camp and dined on delicious hotdogs and smores! They had perfect weather to enjoy the night out under the stars. Today, they had so much fun making charoset in anticipation of tonight’s Pesach Seder.
Machal began their day with a hike up to 2,245 feet above sea level on the Tracy Ridge trail with beautiful views of the Allegheny Reservoir. They will spend the night camping in the Allegheny National Forest as well.
