Jerusalem Report, December 25, 1997

Spirit of the Desert
By Ilene Prusher

Trekking through the Judean, Negev or Sinai deserts with Rabbi Mike Comins is no average rough-it and tough-it climb. Comins, a Reform rabbi and licensed desert guide, packs his trips with silent walks, time for meditation and/or prayer, and "personal time" alone for each participant at breathtaking vistas to contemplate an existence without titles, jobs and material possessions.

Comins, his head draped in white scarf, leads the group of no more than 20 in chants, yoga-inspired breathing techniques and discussions on short texts. His themes come predominantly from Jewish sources, but also draw on Christian and Islamic spiritual thinking, all three – he stresses – rooted in the desert. Participants are encouraged to bring along reading or writing materials, prayer books, sketchbooks, or musical instruments.

Trips, available in both English and Hebrew, range from two to seven days and cost from $85-$325. Packages include transportation from Jerusalem, guided hiking, meals, camping out (backpacks are carried by camel between campsites), or field-school lodging during the cold and rainy season. And don't forget your plastic bag – Comins believes in picking up the trash less thoughtful groups have left behind.