The teens are here, home, happy, and tired in Israel. After a long day of flying and delayed departures the teens finally arrived. As a staff, we went over last-minute details waiting for the kids to arrive and the air was filled with anticipation. At 1:30 in the morning they walked happily out of baggage claim and for many took their first steps in Israel! Bright eyed with hats and lots of water the NFTYites began to explore the land of Israel.
After some well needed sleep we started our trip by doing an archaeological dig at Beit Guvrin. The teens crawled through caves, found pottery, and a lot of rocks too. After, we stopped at Tel Gezer for a brief hike and to learn about how ancient cities functioned and how that related to the Jewish story.
Our journey started with the ancient history of the Jewish people in the land of Israel and we will
continue learning chronologically through the modern State of Israel. It is a rewarding experience to help lead 33 teens through their historical and modern homeland. Seeing them connect to the land, the people, and the modern state is a wonderful thing. After the first day I was more than excited than ever. The teens came with eager attitudes and a desire to be in Israel. Most importantly, the teens are connecting to one other and the group is a friendly and welcoming community.
My hope for the teens is that they connect to the land of Israel, the modern state, and the Israeli
people. Additionally, I hope to help create a Kehila Kadosha, a holy community, where the teens can connect with one another and have the best summer of their life.
