(FJC.ru) The Jewish community of Novosibirsk, Russia, held a Shabbat retreat for grade-schoolers at a Siberian health resort. The gathering for first through fifth graders from Novosibirsk's Ohr Avner Chabad Day School drew more than 60 people to the Zolotoi Bereg Resort.

Its theme, "Knowledge of Our National Traditions – My Big Jewish Family," emphasized the mutual love and respect amongst the Jewish people and the age-old traditions of their forefathers. Participants enjoyed a series of lessons, in addition to numerous other educational and entertaining activities especially prepared by the children's teachers, including contests, musical and theatrical sessions and games.

The weekend also presented an opportunity for parents to get reacquainted with the Jewish lifestyle and traditions, many of which were erased under the Soviet regime.