For many parents, raising Jewish public school children in today’s world comes with many challenges, questions of identity, belonging, and pride in environments where Jewish life can feel distant or pressured.

At the Ohel, the families stood together in solidarity, drawing inspiration from the Rebbe’s teachings and taking time for personal prayer before the start of the weekend.

The program included addresses by Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Chairman of CKids International, Rabbi Berel Lazar, Chief Rabbi of Russia, and noted speaker Rabbi Shais Taub. 

They focused on the Rebbe’s vision for families, how parents’ role model for their children can shape the home, and give children a clearer, more confident sense of their Jewish identity.

“Coming to the CKids Shabbaton is such a special chance for our family. Being at the Ohel is an experience for my son to see Judaism and spirituality alive and present. Being here with children from around the world shows him that Judaism is flourishing and here to stay,” said Jessica Fadlon Serour, a parent from Chabad of Westminster, Montreal, Quebec, attending with her son David Serour, “We are Jews, and we’re proud to say it out loud.”

CKids, the largest Jewish children’s network, brings together families whose children often do not attend Jewish day school, many searching for connection and a sense that they are not alone.

For many participants, the visit marked their first time at the Ohel.

“It’s the culture, the tradition, and that feeling of being part of something bigger,” said Nina, Michelle, and Jacqueline, participants from Chabad of Palm Beach County, reflecting during the opening program. “You don’t feel alone, you feel like you belong.”

For Marine, a parent from Chabad Sainte-Maure, France, the moment carried the weight of a year’s effort.

“Being here at the Ohel, it felt like a dream,” said Marine, “To stand here after watching my son work so hard all year. It’s a moment of pride I can’t describe. To be here now, and share that accomplishment with the Rebbe, it’s something we will carry with us forever.”

Photo Credit: Sholem Srugo/CKids International