This week was both emotional and challenging, but also filled with exciting and meaningful moments.
As I’m sure you know, last weekend, people were crushed to death and more than 150 people hurt, including many in critical condition, in a stampede at a mass gathering to celebrate the Lag B’Omer holiday at Mount Meron. Sunday was declared a day of national mourning.
Rebecca Solit wrote about her experience:
“For today’s Tiyul, we explored the breathtaking desert canyon, flowing waterfalls, and natural pools of the Ein Prat Nature Reserve. Stepping right off the bus, we were amazed by the panoramic view of the canyon, and we made sure to take plenty of pictures (with our Aardvark bucket hats of course!). After a hike along a rocky trail, we cooled down in a stunning natural pool and rushing waterfall. We continued along the trail, crossed countless streams, and were even lucky enough to see a traveling herd of goats! After a relaxing lunch break by more natural pools and waterfalls, many of us cooled off again in the water. We were surprised to experience a “fish pedicure” when we discovered that the pools were home to the small Garra Rufa fish, also known as “doctor fish.” We then left behind the natural pools and hiked out of the canyon.
We got back on the bus and visited the Saint George Monastery, which is located between Jerusalem and Jericho in the Judean Desert. The Monastery was founded in 330 CE by the monk Hariton and is currently home to several Greek Orthodox monks, who seclude themselves in small groups and meet on Saturdays and Sundays to pray together in the church.”
This week in Selah, we continued looking forward to the holiday of Shavuot with our study about the nature of the Torah and what happened (or didn’t happen!) on Mount Sinai 3000 years ago. Our outing on Wednesday was in the theme of Independence Day and Jerusalem Day by visiting Machon Ayalon, the clandestine underground bullet factory. We heard the amazing story of the secret factory right beneath the British forces and even secret to some of the Jewish workers above ground, and we visited the site to see where the story actually happened.
This week in (th)INK! we continued (and finished for the time being) the conversation about the Conservative Movement’s landmark decision in 2006 regarding LGBT relationships and couples.
We’re looking forward to next week, for more exciting and fun experiences.
The Madricha on call for this weekend is Stav.
Have a great weekend,
Gili
