by Rabbi Allie Fischman, Camp Director

Yesterday we commemorated Yom HaShoah or Holocaust Remembrance Day. We remember the six million Jews and the millions of lives cut short by the atrocities of the Holocaust. We also remember those who were not Jewish and risked everything to protect and save us. Read more about the living artifacts at camp that honor and remember the Holocaust.

Helen Burke, the artist behind so many beautiful pieces at camp, was not Jewish. Each time I see her candle sticks or the Little Ambassador ark, I’m awed that Helen fell so in love with camp and our community, inspiring over 1500 campers and staff contribute to pieces to commemorate the Holocaust.

I feel such gratitude that in 1941, our purple-covered Torah was found in Hranice in the Czech Republic and saved before the Jews of that town were deported to Terezin. For these reasons, and so many more, I am proud and grateful to celebrate my Judaism today, together with you all, in our amazing community.

May we remember the lives lost and honor those who risked everything to protect us by living joyful Jewish lives and teaching our generations to come.