Shabbat in Israel: Callan Kotzen

Another stunning morning in Israel began with a tour of the ammunition factory in a kibbutz near Haifa. This factory was the power house behind the production of ammunition between 1945 and 1948 leading up to the War of Independence. Such production was forbidden by the British mandate and this offense could easily get them arrested or even a harsher penalty. This bravery and determination to never give up on fighting for their country made these normal people living on a simple kibbutz into heroes that contributed to the victory in the War of Independence.

We spent our afternoon roaming around the electric atmosphere of the Carmel market. We enjoyed the variety of the stalls alongside the street and overall had a great time. My favourite street was the arts and crafts where people used their creativity to produce magnificent pieces of art, whether in the form of wood work or jewelry.

We prepared for what was destined to be a magical Kabbalat Shabbat at the Kotel. We davened in harmony and soon after were singing and dancing right in front of what has to be the holiest place on Earth. Even when walking up to the Kotel to pray, I felt as if all of my senses turned on and the spiritual presence felt so divine. We then made our way on a long walk back to the hotel for a great Shabbat dinner.