Q&A: Conservative Summer Camp
Conservative Summer Camp
Question
I received an offer to volunteer for several months at a Conservative summer camp. I was told that the camp observes the Sabbath and kashrut fully, but the prayers are mixed. I was even told that there are also “Orthodox” campers there.
What does the Rabbi think about this matter? Is it preferable to give it up?
From a halakhic standpoint, is it permitted?
What halakhic problems will I have to deal with?
Answer
I don’t know exactly what is involved, but it is certainly no worse than a secular camp. Therefore, in my opinion it is definitely important, and therefore also permitted, to take part as much as possible.
It would be advisable to make sure that their halakhic standards for the Sabbath and kashrut match yours, at least insofar as it affects you and what is required of you. You are not responsible for what others do. As for mixed prayer services, in my opinion there is no prohibition involved in that (although of course almost all halakhic decisors would disagree with me about this). But at most, you can always pray on your own. The mission there certainly justifies that.
In addition, it is worth making sure that you will not be required to defend positions that you do not identify with. It would be good if you had the phone number or WhatsApp of someone available who could answer questions that come up in real time. I would not assume there will be anyone like that there.
Best of luck.
Discussion on Answer
I have no idea. I’m not familiar with them.
Can I rely on Conservative kashrut certifying bodies, at least when it comes to non-meat food?