Special Tefillah Moments Across Camp
Tefillot each morning across camp are some of the most special aspects of the Ramah experience. Where else can one find so many kids davenning together, singing joyously? The ruach is infectious.
At camp, we find the shigrah (routine) of tefillot is important, as kids are able to get comfortable with the structure and order of tefillot. At the same time, our tzevet (staff) also always like to mix things up and bring fun, different touches to each edah’s tefillot. Sometimes these are special one-off programs, and sometimes these are specific traditions created for that edah.
Here are some examples of special tefillah moments across the edot from this past week:
Kochavim: This week we had an Adon Olam dance party to end our tefillot with a bang! The kids had an amazing time showing off their moves. The Adon Olam is a special and beautiful prayer, and we wanted our chanichim/ot (campers) to appreciate it and not rush through it.
Ilanot: During Ma Tovu (מה טבו) at the beginning of our tefillot, we had each tzrif gather under a little ohel (tent) made from the talit, to physically embody the line in the tefillah about “ohalei Yaacov”, the tents of the Israelites. Then we all sang the tefillah together!
Solelim: Each day this machzor (session), we have been teaching the chanichim about the different brachot in the Amidah! We take a few minutes each day to explore the meaning behind one bracha, to enhance the campers’ tefillot experience and understanding.
Shoafim: One day this week, we took an extra moment of silence during our Amidah. Afterwards, we talked together about how we can each hear God in the different sounds of camp and nature around us.
Amitzim: There was so much ruach (spirit/energy) in our tefilot right off the bat this Sunday! Everyone was up singing and dancing; it was such a great start to our week!
Magshimim: In Magshimim this machzor (session), has been giving out a “Most Valuable Davener!” trophy at the end of EVERY morning’s tefillot! This has led to a TON of ruach in tefillot and some really excellent engagement in our prayers. We love seeing the chanichim/ot so engaged.
Bogrim: On Monday, two chanichim stepped up and ran our teffilot! We loved seeing our chanichim taking on this leadership role in the edah and putting their skills to use.
Machon: One morning this week, one of our madrichim (counselors), along with Israeli campers from the NOAM program, taught the whole edah a new tune for “Mipi-Eel,” a classic Friday night shira, song. We ale all so excited to sing this new tune at our edah’s tisch this upcoming Shabbat!
Nivonim: On Sunday this past week, Nivonim had a special tefillah in which our madricha Naomi took a moment to lead a meaningful “loving-kindness” meditation. Our chanichim really engaged with this idea of manifesting good into the world.