As the second week of Journey Europe comes to a close and our teens prepare for a beautiful Shabbat evening, the triumphs and trials both of the week come to light: changing hotels and weathering weather events (ha) have tested the adaptability of our teens and staff to make the most of difficult times.
In doing this, they have made way for fun and memorable experiences to take the spotlight instead: taking in the beauty of Eastern Europe’s natural beauty, relaxing and bonding with friends at historical thermal baths, and enjoying close-knit Havdalahs are among the favorites.
But for many of our participants, their time exploring ancient Ashkenazi history stood out the most, whether that be within the harrowing walls of Auschwitz or walking down cobblestone streets that witnessed the laughter of Jewish children hundreds of years ago.
Led by our educator, David, teens had the pleasure of touring Kazimierz, Krakow’s Jewish quarter. The highlight was seeing two very different synagogues. First, they entered the 16th-century Rema Synagogue, named for Rabbi Moshe Isserles, Krakow’s renowned sage and Torah scholar. We heard interesting legends about the Rema and the Krakow Jewish community. Second, they entered the 19th-century Temple Synagogue, which is grandiose in its design, expressing the richness and acculturation of Krakow’s Jews. Finally, they visited Oscar Schindler’s factory, where over 1,100 Jews were rescued during the Holocaust, which was a special opportunity to tell stories of the Righteous Among the Nations who risked their lives to save their Jewish neighbors. It was rewarding to experience this altogether as a kehila, taking this all in.
The following day, they visited Auschwitz—it was a meaningful day as well as a heavy one for all of our participants. David led a session this evening to help them prepare and to get into the right mindset. He reminded them that there is no one right way to react to being at a place like Auschwitz. Some may cry, others may not. Some may need a moment alone, while others will find comfort in the company of others. However, they react, we will be there as a team to support them and to help them process the experience.
It is a special privilege to bring this solemn yet deeply enriching experience to teens on our trips. Balancing fun with Jewish connection is a task we find fulfilling to master. As the trip continues, our chanichim will continue to explore Eastern European Jewry and feel that awe-inspiring connection to ancestors that we don’t know, but can feel their resilience in our existence today.
We cannot wait to tell you more about your teens’ experiences next week as they travel through Prague and Vienna, taking in their unique Jewish history and expressing Jewish joy as they bond, laugh, and learn together. Nature trails, amusement parks, museums of Jewish history, and castles that will continue to witness history await your teens in preparation for what will be their final Shabbat with Yallah! Israel.
Shabbat Shalom!
