Over
100 alumni and friends of Taglit-Birthright Israel: MAYANOT came together for a
Mayanot Shabbaton in New York City. The crowd comprised of a few dozen
different Mayanot groups, some gathering just weeks after their journey to
Israel, while others came together several years (as far back as 2007!) after
their trips.
Before
Shabbat settled upon the city, several of the boys in attendance donned Teffilin
while the entire group gathered and sang “Oseh Shaom” in the streets of New
York. As part of the pre-Shabbat service, the participants read a “Mi
Shebayrach” – special prayer – for the injured soldiers and chanted the “Kel
Moleh Rachamim” for the soldiers who have lost their lives.
A
special version of the “Mi Shebayrach” was recited in merit of the soldiers still
standing on the front lines protecting Israel and the Jewish people. The Rabbis
in attendance also delivered the prayers in English for the gathered crowd. The
girls in attendance conducted an emotional Shabbat candle lighting ceremony
with thoughts and prayers for Am Yisrael.
Before
breaking bread, participants and staff dedicated a loud and unified recitation
of the Shema to the soldiers and citizens of Israel, which was lead,
ironically, by a young man named Michael Levine. Michael, since his recent trip
to Israel, has begun saying the Shema daily.
A special highlight of the evening was the arrival of, Ofer, one of the “Mifgashim” from one of the groups. The “Mifgashim” program brings trip participants and their Israeli counterparts together during the Birthright Israel experience. When Ofer, visiting America from Israel was introduced, the song, “Hevaynu Shalom Aleichem” was sung with admiration and respect. Ofer, feeling like a real celebrity, joked, "Does Bibi get such a welcome?"
Throughout the night, lively socializing and spirited conversations filled the room. “The staff had to literally kick everyone out because it got so late and no one wanted to leave!” said Rabbi Dov Oliver, the Taglit-Birthright Israel: Mayanot Alumni NYC coordinator. “Friday night was a huge success, the positivity and energy was amazing.”
Mayanot thanks Rebecca and Natalie of The Alumni Community-Reunion for hosting such a tremendous event as well as Yoni and the Brownstone crew for hosting staff for Shabbat. Special thanks of course to Adam for his continued hard work and support of Mayanot Alumni NYC.
Mayanot thanks Rebecca and Natalie of The Alumni Community-Reunion for hosting such a tremendous event as well as Yoni and the Brownstone crew for hosting staff for Shabbat. Special thanks of course to Adam for his continued hard work and support of Mayanot Alumni NYC.
May we share good news from the Holy Land!
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