Philosophy
At Camp Ben Frankel every child, regardless of background in Judaism, interests, and skills, is a valued member of the camp community. We consider ourselves “reconformadox”. We respect the traditions and honor the heritage of all the branches of Judaism. Our activities are designed with that in mind. Our first Director Hyman Ruffman first expressed our philosophy that “nothing Jewish should be unfamiliar to our campers and staff”.
While CBF strives to provide a nurturing environment, we also believe that camp is the perfect opportunity for campers to learn and explore new ideas and activities in a safe environment. We also encourage our campers to try new activities. Our strong emphasis on community and teamwork creates an environment where children can explore these ideas and activities in a supportive environment while establishing close Jewish friendships.
Camp Ben Frankel is a pluralistic and Zionist camp. Our mission is to inform campers and staff about the beauty, meaningfulness and relevance of Judaism to their everyday lives. Our philosophy has long been that "nothing Jewish should be unfamiliar" and to that end we borrow heavily from all the movements and we respect and do our best to accommodate campers and staff from all backgrounds. We try to foster dialogue so that for example, the Orthodox can learn from the Reform and the Reform can learn from the Orthodox.
The camp is kosher and observes Shabbat and other Jewish holidays that fall during the session. Campers and staff are encouraged to develop their prayer skills and to that end all are invited to learn how to lay tefillin, wear a tallis and kippah and to daven. Motzi and Birkat are recited at every meal and the entire camp participates in services each morning before breakfast.
As much as possible during the camp session we seek to familiarize campers and staff with Hebrew and Yiddish and the history, customs and culture of the Jewish people. We so through song, dance, prayer, and evening and special programs. During camp we elicit Jewish views and responses to the challenges of living together as a community. Staff are chosen, in part because of their Jewish knowledge and commitment and are expected to be good Jewish role models.
We also nurture close relationships with Israelis and Israel. Israeli
staff are hired and provide leadership in developing and presenting special
programs and daily activities that teach both campers and staff about
the religious, historical and cultural importance of Israel to the Jewish
people as a whole and to themselves, personally.
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