Winter Retreat Roundup

By Fiona Rae, Beth Emet Communications Intern

Every year, Beth Emet hosts an annual winter retreat. This presents an opportunity for community members and families to connect with each other and engage in seasonal fun. This year, the retreat went from Friday, December 5th to Sunday, December 7th. Over the Shabbat weekend, participants recharged through worship, learning, art, music, dance, games, and celebration at OSRUI in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, situated on Lac La Belle Lake.

This year’s theme focused on leaning into Jewish joy and standing at thresholds of change. “It was an incredible opportunity to hold each other close as we move through turbulent times in the world and change in our own Beth Emet community. Personally, I loved the dancing!” Director of Community Engagement Debbie Siegel-Acevedo said.

The weekend was snowy but attendees got cozy with games, conversation, snacks, and fun. 

The retreat began on Friday night with a candle-lighting and communal dinner. Over 100 congregants of all ages came together to eat and connect or reconnect. Participants ranged from toddlers to seniors, making the meal gathering exciting with so many generations around. There was food and music shared in the warm dining hall.

Throughout the weekend, there were many crafts to make, such as copper squares with inscriptions about joy derived from Jewish wisdom and other traditions, Star of David ornaments, and drawings. Children participated in sports in the Sports Center and had lots of fun playing games with the teen staff.

“The kids were wonderful! We had a range of ages from 2-14 and everyone spent time together! Our teen staff connected quickly with the kids and were playful and thoughtful in their time on the retreat. We were very lucky, to get such a fantastic group,” Director of Youth Engagement Emmie Weprin said.

Meanwhile, adults gathered to study Torah with Rabbi London for a rich exploration of themes related to Torah and Jewish identity.

At night, highlights included a glow stick party, a raucous sing down, a flash mob set to Ocho Kandelikas, Karaoke, a jam session with guitars and drums, and the community singing in unison.

“Our Shabbat retreat at OSRUI was a true winter-wonderland experience, filled with joy-filled singing, meaningful learning, and the kind of cross-generational connections that only happen when we step away together. The weekend left our community renewed, inspired, and deeply connected,” Cantor Natalie Young said.

Additionally, we celebrated Rabbi Andrea London’s birthday on the retreat, marked with a special cake!

If you missed this year’s, be sure to sign up early for the next one! This year’s filled fast.

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