Am Yisrael Chai: A Weekend of Russian-Jewish Unity
The 16th Annual International Shabbaton Weekend Rekindles Jewish Identity and Connection
Over the weekend of June 6–8, the Armon Hotel in Stamford, Connecticut came alive with the spirit of Jewish unity and learning that electrified the 16th Annual International Russian-Jewish Shabbaton. Many hundreds of Jews from the Russian community gathered from across the country for a weekend of collective learning, celebration, and connection.
This year’s theme, Am Yisrael Chai, set the tone—a bold affirmation of Jewish pride and solidarity with Israel. In today’s world where Jewish identity is challenged, this Shabbaton-Weekend stood as a resounding chorus of Jewish continuity and strength.
Attendees heard from world-renowned speakers and thinkers, including Rabbi Manis Friedman, Rebbetzin Slovie Jungreis-Wolff, Software Developer Avraham Petrosian, Israeli politician and diplomat Ofir Akunis, and many others. Their talks and workshops spanned topics such as personal growth, Jewish wisdom and thought, parenting, relationships, current events, and more.
The weekend program featured dozens of lectures and workshops, with content in both English and Russian. Sessions included “The Rabbi and the Devil: An Unusual Journey Through the Text of the Mishnah” with Rabbi Dov Ber Baytman, “Emotional Intelligence in Jewish Sources” with Dr. Isabella K. Reichell, and “The Power of the Jewish Woman” with Slovie Jungreis-Wolff.
Special sessions for singles were held, and a full children’s program gave parents the freedom to fully participate in the weekend while their kids enjoyed a fun, engaging experience with peers their own age. The weekend was filled with music, dancing, and a powerful sense of Jewish unity—people reconnecting with their roots, their faith, and one another. Many walked away with a deeper sense that they are part of something greater: a shared history and a future bound by tradition and purpose. The Jewish people remain strong, vibrant, and unbreakable.
As the world becomes more divided, events like this remind us who we are and what we stand for. Proud. United. Jewish.
We’re honored to have been part of this unforgettable weekend and look forward to continuing to support programs that strengthen Jewish life and identity. ■
The event was arranged and organized by Chamah and directed by Rabbi Benzion Laskin, and was made possible in part through the generous support of Chamah, the Lubavitch Youth Organization, the World Zionist Organization, and private donors.
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