We then walked down to the Kotel while continuisly singing songs. Once we got to the Kotel, I felt the spirit of Shabbat all around me. Everyone was celebrating Shabbat in their own meaningful way. Some people were singing, some dancing, some praying and some just observing the sight. Our group was really into the singing and the dancing in front of the Kotel. We joined a school group and a tourist group, singing and dancing showing tons of passionate ruach. It felt amazing to be rejoicing with fellow Jewish people (that would usually be considered strangers), but in this case I felt a connection to them because we knew all the same dances and songs as they know. When it came close to the time of Maariv I pushed my way through and went up close to the wall, while saying the Amidah. After saying Maariv to ourselves we went on our way walking back to the campus. It was an hour walk, but felt like much less because it was such an enjoyable walk. Walking through the city on Friday night is an amazing sight. Being able to say Shabbat Shalom to nearly everyone on the street and barely seeing any cars out is a rare sight to see anywhere else in the world.
Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures to post from the Kotel because it was Shabbat.
Today, we had a choice between four different synagogues to go to for the morning service. I signed up for Yadidya. Yadidya is a Modern Orthodox Synagogue located in the neighbourhood of Baka. Although it is Modern Orthodox it is pretty egalitarian in the fact that they do have a Mechiza, but it isn't too high, women are able to lead services, wear talitot, and their is an entrance to the Bimah from the women's side. It is a beautifully decorated synagogue and looks very modern. Funnily enough, I saw my old principal of Associated who made Aliyah to Israel there. So far this is my favourite synagogue that I have been to in Jerusalem.
Tonight we went to Mamilla mall. Unfortunately, but at the same time fortunately it was raining. It is an outside mall, but when it rains in Israel it only turns out to be drizzling. It was nice to see all the stores re-open again after Shabbat. I was able to make my first real purchase in Israel by purchasing a couple Ronen Chen dresses and shirts (finally clothing that will make me look like more of an Israeli :) ). After that, I spent time writing essays for English (nothing too exciting there).
Shevua Tov!!
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