Shabbat Shalom & Update from Gush Etzion

Good Morning –

We have spoken to many parents this morning and appreciate you reaching out with any concerns for your children. Please see below updates (and myth busters):

– Is there a war? No. Anyone who follows JPost or any Israeli news sees that there is some action near Gaza which has been going on for the last couple of months. Originally the Pioneers were spending some time in the South (not on the border of Gaza though 🙂 ) and on Monday of this week we decided to change the itinerary and keep them closer to Jerusalem. Safety is our #1 consideration and that is not something we ever take lightly.

– So why did my child say there is a war and they are going home? Good question 🙂 – Shilo explained to them that places they have visited often in 1 day can turn into a place that there is fighting. He treated them as adults for them to understand that our plans changed so they understand that the country and reality is much bigger than us. To confirm, They are NOWHERE near any danger but he wanted them to understand the reality of Israel and how precious the safety of our land and people are.

– Where are they now? We set up a spot in the Gush that is safe and secure for them to sleep. It is not a hotel by any means but it is an experience they will remember and we know they will enjoy. There may have been some Pioneers complaining about the accommodations, but that comes with the experience.

– Why did my child say he/she is hungry? There is plenty of food as in every Shabbat. A very small part of the group didn’t have a chance to go to the makolet (minimart) before Shabbat because they closed after the ATV’s were finished so maybe your child was part of that group but there is no shortage food drinks etc.

Now to what they did today!

The Pioneers learned about the founding of Gush Etzion and what an integral part it is both in terms of land and meaning to Israel. They went ATVing, Zip lining and are now getting ready to spend Shabbat together in a beautiful area. We just spoke to the counselors and the group is excited for their last weekend together.

Richie Chalme will be joining them early next week for the last few days and be in touch on location.

Click here for some pics and vids from today

Shabbat Shalom,

Unified & Strong,
THE ILEAD TEAM