Kehillah 2007 Updates

July 2nd, 2007 - Arrival in Israel!

Shalom Nesiya Parents,

Your children have arrived!!!! After months of anticipation and many long hours in an airplane, I am thrilled to report that the Nesiya summer of 2007 has begun. Upon their arrival bright and early in Israel, your children were welcomed at the airport by their staff and Israeli peers. The entire group then traveled to Park Canada, a beautiful nature reserve outside of Tel Aviv. Despite the inevitable tiredness after a long flight, they seem happy to be here, open to meeting new people and eager to begin their nesiya (journey) together.

The Americans and Israelis were divided into subgroups – Kehillahs One, Two & Three. I am attaching a complete group list to this email so that you can find out your child's group number. Most of the activities this summer will be experienced within these smaller groups to ensure the best dynamic and more individual attention for each participant. But first the entire group was together in Park Canada where they played introductory games, faced the challenge of learning everyone’s name, and ate a light Israeli lunch, including hummus, boureakas, eggplant salad and fresh veggies. Charles Herman, Nesiya's Executive Director, welcomed the group and spoke to them about the complex and multi-faceted 'truths' of Israel and Judaism the groups will explore this summer.

As I write, the groups are headed south, towards Har HaNegev, a base on the edge of the Ramon Crater, also known as the 'Grand Canyon’ of Israel. Tomorrow they’ll begin their desert experience by examining the Lech Lecha Torah text, in which God commands Abraham to leave his home to begin a journey into the wilderness. . .

Please note that as of tomorrow evening (toward the end of the fast for the 17th of Tammuz) the group will be entering the Negev for a three-day 'noded,' hiking and camping adventure. Consequently, they will not have cellular phone reception until Thursday night (Israel time). Please do not be concerned if you cannot contact your child until then.

It was really a treat to finally meet your children this morning. Julie also conveyed to me what a special group this is and how much she enjoyed beginning to get to know the participants during the flight. I look forward to further updating you about your child’s journey. Please feel free to email me with any questions or concerns.

B’shalom,
Mollie Brody

p.s. – Throughout the summer we will be adding photos of your child's adventure to the Nesiya website.  Be sure to check the site every few days to look for new pictures.