Summer Camp for B'nei Menashe Children at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur

Participants gather for the Summer Camp at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur.

(June 23, 2025) The inaugural summer camp for B'nei Menashe children, sponsored by Degel Menashe and another donor, concluded at the Rabbi Eliyahu Avichail Memorial Hebrew School at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur, Lamka, as Shabbat began last week. Throughout the week, various activities and classes were organized to help children discover their potential, explore aspects of Judaism, and learn about Israel. Guides and teachers rotated in conducting classes, starting with a 5:30 am wake-up call. Shacharit (morning prayers) took place before all activities and classes, which commenced at 8 am. Participants received three hot meals daily. The camp wasn't solely focused on learning; fun and games were also integrated into the daily schedule. Approximately 70 individuals participated, with around 30 coming from nearby communities such as New Dampi, Sijang, Phailien, and Jangnomphai. The camp welcomed children aged 6 to 18, and parents who wished to join were also invited. The women of Ma'oz Tzur impressively prepared meals three times a day, while the men volunteered as handymen, ready to assist with any arising needs.

Learning in progress.

The classes were split into two age groups: 6-10 years and 11-18 years. Teachers and guides, each an expert in their respective fields, took turns sharing their knowledge on topics such as Judaism, Hebrew, and education. With the school equipped with a smart television and Wi-Fi, the organizers screened various documentaries about Israel, showing one each day that covered subjects like the Bible, history, science and technology, and life in and the land of Israel.

Children at play.

It was a unique event, a first if its kind and the eagerness to learn was evident. Here are some comments from the participants:

• Elona Haokip(16), Jangnomphai: "I am thankful to the organizers for creating a program like this. I have learnt a lot about my responsibilities as a Jewish woman and helping me understand my roots."

• Shlomo Singson (12), Sijang: I have learnt to say brachot and understand the mitzvot. I am going to share it with my friends when I go back home."

• Menashe Lhungdim (17), from New Dampi: I am grateful to our teachers for their patient instruction. I am returning home with the knowledge and confidence needed for spiritual and intellectual growth. Enhancing my Hebrew reading skills will benefit me in the future."

• Tamar Kipgen (40), a mother from Jangnomphai: "This camp is a tremendous blessing and valuable. It should be done more often and extended to older people like myself."