The first Shabbos of the summer at Camp Gan Yisroel-Parksville was a sight to behold. The camp spirit that is present throughout the week is especially prevalent on Shabbos, and the singing by each seudah, davening with chayus, and Mishnayos Ba’al Peh energized the entire camp.

Click continue reading for extended article and gallery.

On Erev Shabbos, after the second activity, the campers were dismissed to their bunkhouses for cleanup. There was time to call home and prepare for Shabbos. Then came bedside inspection, followed by a special Erev Shabbos learning class and a lebedike Mincha and Kabbolas Shabbos.

Seudas Shabbos in camp is a truly memorable experience. After a delicious meal, the tables are cleared and song sheets distributed. Reflective melodies are followed by joyous singing and dancing; it is a memory fondly looked back to for years to come.

This Shabbos being Gimmel Tamuz, the campers were addressed by Rabbi Shemtov, who explained to them the meaning of this day, and how to make the most of it. After rest period, the day concluded with learning classes, Mishnayos Ba’al Peh, shalosh seudos, and of course a very entertaining sharyunky.

After Ma’ariv, the winners of Shabbos competition, who will go on a special trip, were announced.