From the build up of the trip no-one knew
what to expect. We were pretty much clueless. But from the minute we all met
all 11 of us just clicked, like we had known each other previously. On our
first Shabbat we went to the Kotel on Friday night. I personally felt that this
was one of the most incredible experiences that we could have witnessed, as a
group that is now a family! All of the people there knowing we all have some
sort of connection purely because of our Jewish identity. The whole atmosphere
was incredible and is something none of us will ever forget. Also, during this
week we volunteered at various places. I went to a soup kitchen and prepared
all of the food to be cooked for people who are in need of meals. I felt that
this was a very inspirational thing to do as we were there to help others and
learn a bit about the soup kitchen including how and why it was set up. I just
wanted to end by saying that we are all having an amazing time and boiling in
this weather, but we wouldn’t want it any other way!
-Nicole Eriera
We have started to relive Jewish history
at the sites where it occurred. Debby Davidoff said that “the views are just
incredible.”
We have started to learn Hebrew and have
learnt to say “ani rak medaber/et Anglit” (I only speak English!) and have
heard many talks on various subjects related to us and Judaism. The most
popular talk so far was by Dov Ber Cohen, who told us about his journeys in Asia
until he got to Israel. Everyone commented on how inspiring a talk it was. The
girls asked, “Can his wife come teach us yoga?”
We also met a religious scribe and
practised writing with quills before baking challah in the Old City. Daniel
Rose asked, “have you seen my perfect challah?”
