Legoland Staffer’s Holy Curiosity

After spending the past week discussing the ins and outs of a Kiddush and Chilul Hashem, Chabad boys camp Pioneer Division in Miami, Florida put it to the test.

Head Counselor Mendy Garfinkel challenged the boys to put their knowledge of the Mitzva to the test by showing the meaning of an AM KODOISH throughout the recent trip to Lego Land, Fl.

After an amazing day of rides, fun, and excitement, it was back to the luxury coach bus for the long ride home. But not before a Pioneer Divison Mincha, just off the entrance to Lego Land.

As the boys began a heartfelt rendition of Ashrei, onlookers were mostly mesmerized to see Jewish kids capping off the amazing day with prayer and of course thanks to Hashem. But the best was yet to come.

A Lego Land official (who turned out to be the Electrical Engineer and Designer to the WORLD OF CHIMA) drove over in a security cart. He stopped and watched until finally approaching head counselor Mendy.

Mendy had asked if there was any concern, but He said he just wanted to watch. After Shemona Esrei he tells Mendy, “I used to sing these prayers many many years ago when I was a kid, when I heard them off the distance I needed to come and experience them again.”

That’s all the boys needed to hear!

Being well before sundown, a pair of Tefilin was brought and in moments he was singing Shema Yisroel with the entire camp. It was an emotional sight for all to see, but even more as he said it has been 18 years since he put on Tefillen.

The boys were so proud of this Mitzvah and how it was their Ashrei that caused it! They danced with him like it was his Bar Mitzvah.

Our new friend who’s Jewish name is Eliezer Yisroel parted from us, assuring us his next step was to connect to a local synagogue and rekindle his beloved Jewish roots.

We were so proud to be a part of his new excitement for Yiddishkeit.

The best part of the day, was that the counselors needed not preach the idea of Kiddush Hashem any longer, for the children saw and experienced firs thand its value and meaning. A most powerful and kinesthetic learning experience.

A special thank you to Rabbi Benjy Korf, Dean of the Lubavitch Edcuational Center, and Principal Mrs. Chaya Sara Dalfin for their strong support in creating a quality and affordable camp experience for boys ages 9 -14.

Camp staff includes our returning Head Counselor Rabbi Mendy Garfinkel, Counselors, Yossi Cohen, Chaim Gutt, Mendel Spalter and Moshe Garfinkel. C.I.T. Aaron Cohen, Yossi Prigan, and Yossel Pinhas.