Monthly Archives: September 2012

If you couldn’t join Oorah for Rosh Hashanah at TheZone, read what some of our guests had to say and experience the inspiration second-hand:

“We are so happy and proud to be part of the Oorah family. We are greeted so warmly, whenever we’re with Oorah we feel so special, never judged, and that’s a great feeling. The camp location is majestic, the food fit for royalty, the other guests so interesting to meet, the programming so inspiring and enjoyable. The services so easy to follow, while being in the gorgeous synagogue surrounded by breathtaking views…

One speaker over Rosh Hashanah mentioned he would like a TorahMate either “on top of him on the ladder or below him.” At Oorah, everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow no matter what level you are on!

One young lady we got acquainted with said correctly that she “felt as if she were watching a talent show.” People were getting up from all different sides of the dining room and giving it their all, whether it be speaking, singing or entertaining. They were all winners!

But we, who found Oorah, are the real winners!”

and another:

“When I decided to attend, it was merely to get out of having to go to my in-laws- again! Little did I know what would be awaiting my family and me.

The first thing that struck us was the beautiful grounds, and then we got to meet- and get to know- the even more beautiful members of the Oorah family.

What made Rosh Hashanah so special was the combination of: stirring davenings, powerful speeches, TorahMate learning and complete achdus. Individuals of all different backgrounds, ages and levels of Torah observance united in prayer and gatherings as one.

When our family left the beautiful grounds and drove back home, we didn’t leave Rosh Hashanah behind, but rather took it with us. For these important High Holy days, Oorah got us all in TheZone.

Next time I go- I may even bring my in-laws to experience it with me!”

One guest found the prayers most inspirational:

“I saw boys with black yarmulkes and green and white ones sitting beautifully for hours and they were really davening. The singing of the piyutim was more inspiring that I’ve experienced in over 30 days of davening in yeshivas. The short words of inspiration given at different points in the davening were beautifully done and at least one of my children was converted into a “shul-goer” over Rosh Hashanah.

The feeling was that we were one family. People at random stopped to shmooze with me, ask me who I was and why I came there… I was amazed by the forethought and planning that went into the event…”

and so did this one:

“At first, I thought it would be uncomfortable for me since I did not have my family with me. Oorah made me feel part of your family.

I had been to other Rosh Hashanah programs. They offered discussions in other rooms during services for those who didn’t feel comfortable in the service. I went to them. When the day was over, I felt that I didn’t pray. I liked that TheZone didn’t have that option. I was able to be pushed out of my comfort zone with the help of others.

The shiurs were at a level that I could relate to. Normally I hear what rabbis say but can’t remember anything to share with others. I left TheZone just waiting to share what I heard with others…”

just one last comment from the many more we received:

“From the beautiful scenery, inspiring lectures, amazing people and delicious food, I would recommend an event by Oorah to anyone. What I absolutely love about Oorah is that they accept people of all types and backgrounds: religious, non-religious and people who are trying to be religious… I got myself an amazing TorahMate and couldn’t be happier. I feel like I can always count on my TorahMate/Oorah to make me feel whole, keep me inspired and give me the strength, guidance and support I need to continue learning so that I can become a better Jew…”