Learning about Jewish Values in Khabarovsk, Russia
Ages: 13-16 years old

In Khabarovsk, Russia campers delved into the vast world of Jewish values. Through the use of traditional and modern texts, the campers learned about different values and teachings. In the seven days they were in camp, they touched on the following subjects: Faith, unity, and solidarity, individual and collective responsibility, charity, Anti-Semitism, the Holocaust, and Israel.

Campers creatively expressed what they had learned on Jewish values.

The music workshop was one of the most popular at camp.

In order to make the discussion on Jewish values come alive for the campers, the staff prepared various role plays and simulation games. One of the most interesting role plays was about the Jewish wedding ceremony where campers studied all about the customs and rules related to a traditional Jewish wedding. Campers organized a 'mock' wedding ceremony by themselves and prepared everything. The older campers helped the younger ones and they all harmoniously worked together.

MAZAL TOV! Campers take part in a 'mock' wedding ceremony.

Lena Waisman, 15 years old

"Hello, I'm Lena Waisman. I'm 15 years old. This is my first Jewish camp. From the very first day, our counselors created a really good mood in the camp. Everyday we had very interesting workshops and classes. We studied a lot about Judaism, Israel, and Jewish history. I liked the day when we discussed different issues concerning anti-Semitism. We watched a film "The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas". It was very exciting and I even burst into tears.

We talked a lot about Torah and read texts from it. Some of the texts were very difficult and it was not easy to understand them and to answer questions. We discussed and disputed one another and thought a lot about the meaning of the texts.

And we had a real wedding ceremony. It was amazing! All of us had their own roles. I liked my role of dairy mate. In the evening, we made a real hupa ' wedding canopy' and our bride was very beautiful!

Each day we also had different workshops and studios. I participated in the theater studio. It was very interesting. We had professional training and did short thematic performances. 

I think that it's very important that the camp was not only fun but also a cognitive experience. I felt that I was in a big Jewish family. I liked it very much and am looking forward to next summer with my new friends!"

Group photo of campers in Khabarovsk

August 9 -16th, 2009