Submitted by Rabbi Loren Sykes
From April 20 – 25, I had the opportunity to work with our new mishlachat members at the JAFI Summer Shlichim Program Pre-Season Training Seminar, held at Kibbutz Shefayim. The weather was fantastic and the view of the Mediterranean Sea was truly spectacular. Even more exciting, however, was seeing our new group develop from 17 individuals into a cohesive, energized mishlachat. Each day of the seminar is incredibly intense, from early morning until late at night, with a variety of activities, sessions, and lectures. Shlichim learn about North American Jewry, different ways to bring their Israel to camp, and how to be succesful staff members. We have an incredibly diverse group – religious and secular, Ashkenazi and Sefaradi, from Kiryat Shemona to Beersheva, from Jerusalem to Holon. I had a great time working with them and I know that they can't wait to meet our campers and staff members at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin this summer!
