Am Kolel, a Judaic Resource and Renewal Center, is delighted to announce the upcoming fifth annual Martin Buber Summer Youth Institute for teens ages 13-17! The program will take place at Am Kolel’s Sanctuary in Beallsville, MD. There will be three separate one-week sessions to choose from. July 9th-15th, July 30th-Aug 5, and Aug 6th-Aug 12th. Participants will experience kibbutz-style cooperative living while learning about Jewish Social Philosophy, Jewish Environmental Ethics, Conflict-Resolution, and working on an organic farm. The Buber Kibbutz offers a unique way for youth to deepen their Jewish identity and sense of community, their understanding of Jewish teachings on community and ecology, as well as their practice of and commitment to Tikkun Olam. Each day includes morning prayer and contemplative spiritual practice, farm work and cooking, hiking and swimming in the creek, study of Martin Buber's teachings on Social Philosophy and Jewish renewal, a campfire and a kumsitz, or sing-along. In addition, daily chuggim (interest groups) include opportunities to learn new skills such as conflict resolution, how to draw comics, mural painting, bicycle maintenance, guitar, harmonica, among other possibilities. Students will hear presentations and participate in discussions on Such topics as "Judaism and Food Culture" and "Global Warming." We will also take several field trips to local sites. Our staff includes: Rabbi David Shneyer, director of Am Kolel, Spiritual leader of Kehila Chadash, folksinger, guitarist and peace activist; Mat Tonti, program coordinator, Jewish environmental educator, artist, and father of a soon to be born child; In order to make this excellent opportunity available to teens And their parents, I ask that you please print out several copies of the attached flyer and post them in a visible location in your synagogue. In addition, please forward this message along with the attached flyer To anyone you know who might be interested. For more information, or to register, please visit our website or contact Mat! |