Shabbat Message from Camp George – Jan. 3, 2025
Dear Camp George Community,
As we welcome this week’s Shabbat, our hearts are heavy with the news of the loss of our beloved Chadar Ohel at Camp George which was destroyed in a fire last night. In times of difficulty, we find strength in community and faith, knowing that together we can rebuild and thankful that the loss was limited to property. The words below are from Rabbi Stephen Wise, a longtime friend of Camp George and a dedicated faculty and council member, reflecting the spirit of resilience that will guide us in the days ahead. With your support, I know that we will emerge from this challenge stronger than ever, looking forward to the best summer ever, and with great faith in all that the future holds for Camp George.
Our community woke up this morning to the heartbreaking news that a fire broke out at Camp George yesterday afternoon. As we reflect on the eight nights of Chanukah, a festival that teaches us how light can uplift or destroy, we are reminded of the power fire holds—both to illuminate and to challenge us.
Our Rabbis taught us that during Chanukah, we add one light each night, symbolizing an upward journey of holiness. These lights, shining bright in the darkness of winter, inspire us to remember the miracles of the past and to bring more light into the world. As we hold this wisdom close, we think about the many ways Camp George has illuminated our lives over the past 25 summers.
While we face a difficult moment, we take comfort in knowing that our dedicated team is already at work. Jeff Rose, Lauren Grundland, Marly Bromstein, Josh Tolkin, and Jenny and Chris Cargill, along with lay chairs Joe Gold and Jaime Reich and their committee, have begun assessing the damage and planning for the future. We will certainly need the help, patience, and support of our entire community as we work through this crisis and prepare for Summer 2025.
This week’s Torah portion tells the story of Joseph, who, in his deepest despair, sat in an Egyptian jail cell, wondering how he could ever escape the darkness and reunite with his family and homeland. Through faith, determination, and his gift for interpreting dreams, Joseph emerges as a shining star, guiding Egypt through years of feast and famine. Like Joseph, our community will emerge from this challenge to rebuild and renew. I am confident that, together, we will rebound stronger than ever and create an incredible summer 2025 at Camp George.
Shabbat Shalom,
Jeff Rose
Camp Director