This morning, instead of having the regular T’fillah in the outdoor sanctuary, campers and counselors were split up by units and sent to different locations. This type of T’fillah is known as Unit T’fillah. Song leaders, faculty, and/or senior staff usually lead Unit T’fillah. Each unit has a different theme for their service. Instead of just singing songs, the leaders incorporate fun and unique activities into prayers. One camper from each unit wrote about their first unit T’fillah experience of the summer and we would like to share what they experience.

Nitzanim Unit T’fillah
“For Nitzanim’s Unit T’fillah this week we met in the art room. Stephanie, who is on faculty, led the service while Jake A. played guitar. We started with Modeh Ani and Barchu. We wrote on index cards what we are thankful for. We ended with the Shema and Oseh Shalom. This was a great first unit T’fillah.” – Samara L., bunk 5

Bonim Unit T’fillah
“Today, all of Bonim gathered in the hockey pavilion and learned a new lesson: we must be able to rely on each other. We formed a tight circle, shoulder to shoulder, then turned to our right and sat on the lap of the person behind us. We simultaneously held someone up and leaned on someone. We ended with the song “Lean on Me”. It was a good morning!” – Sarah S., bunk 6

Lower Chaverim Unit T’fillah
“Today we had Unit T’fillah and Lower Chaverim got a taste of complete relaxation. First, we entered the Beit Am and sang a song that lifted everyone’s spirits. Then, we got to relax every part of our bodies. After, we sang the same song again. You could sense the relaxation and joy in the room. I hope that I can have more experiences like this.” – Rayna H., bunk 10

Upper Chaverim Unit T’fillah
“This morning, during Unit T’fillah, Upper Chaverim went to the Rec Hall unaware of what they were going to do. We soon learned we were participating in yoga exercises led by Meytal as we prayed. We all started sitting and were taught different positions that we then performed while Jeff and Cantor Shannon led us in typical morning T’fillah prayers and songs. We also got the chance to lie down while we prayed silently and only sat up when we were ready to continue. Throughout the service, we became more relaxed and involved in the activity. First, everyone was giddy and confused, but soon got used to the stress relieving positions that were a challenge at first but fun.” – Dana J., bunk 16 

By Lindsey Blackman, Communications Specialist