A vacation to a new locale is a wonderful opportunity to attend services in a new setting, to find out how other Jews do what we do. The less hectic summer schedule provides many openings for including new Jewish rituals at home, a time for a leisurely Shabbat dinner, an experiment with havdalah , perhaps a barbecue and Bible discussion get-together with friends. Summer is the perfect time to catch up with reading, and Jewish topics should be included in the selection. Over the course of the year, many new books, fiction and non-fiction, have been added to our library. The Spirituality Chavurah in particular has made numerous purchases and has suggested reading lists available.
Summer is a time for Jewish growth.
People who attend Jewish camps have known this for years. Whatever your preferred activity, use your imagination and give it a Jewish component. At your Fourth of July barbecue, consider the influence that Biblical teachings had on this nation's founders. Set aside time to study the weekly Torah portion, just as you set aside time to read the Sunday paper-even at a campsite. In short, when making summer plans, and packing your bags, leave room for that Jewish novel, the Kiddush cup, the Shabbat meal and discussion.