A robust slate of programming awaited participants at the CYP Encounter Shabbaton in Crown Heights following Friday’s speed dating event and midday break.

Over 1,000 participants regrouped as the sun set across the big apple to hear from Eliya Cohen, a survivor of Hamas captivity. Held in Gaza for 505 days, Eliya rediscovered his connection with Hashem in Hamas’ tunnels and emerged with an extraordinary story of faith and resilient Jewish identity.

In the non-recorded, confidential session, Eliya spoke candidly with the young professionals about the power of faith, the sanctity of Shabbos, and the strength of Jewish pride. Many participants later shared with their shluchim how deeply moved they were by Eliya and his message.

As Shabbos approached, the women gathered in Oholei Torah’s main ballroom for a Shabbos candle-lighting ceremony, led by Mrs. Mushka Plotkin of Intown Chabad Dallas. Those who had never lit candles before were gently introduced to the mitzvah, while those already familiar were invited to experience it with greater depth and intention.

At the same time, the men gathered in another area of Oholei Torah for Mincha, followed by uplifting Shabbos melodies that set the tone for the hours ahead.

“There’s nothing more powerful than an authentic Shabbos experience,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Chairman of CYP International at Chabad World Headquarters. “It’s where the Jewish people have been drawing strength for generations. This weekend sitting around the shabbos table, hearing so many powerful stories of young Jews embracing their heritage, you could feel the bright Jewish future ahead of us. 

Among them was Jessica Addvensky of New Orleans, Louisiana. After attending a Catholic school from fifth grade through high school, at times the only Jew her classmates and teachers had ever met, Encounter held deep meaning for her.

“I attended Encounter last year, and it was the first time in my life that I was surrounded by so many Jews. It was also the first time I ever kept Shabbos,” she shared. “Since then, I keep Shabbos at least once a month. I hope to bring back inspiration to my own work and find new ways to strengthen Jewish connection in my community, after meeting so many incredible young Jewish professionals.”

Friday night continued with sessions and Shabbos meals hosted by Crown Heights families, followed by additional programming late into the night.

The following day featured tailored prayer experiences, further sessions and lectures, chavrusa Chassidus study, and workshops tackling the pressing challenges these young Jews face.

“It was an incredible 25 hours of connection and inspiration,” said Rabbi Beryl Frankel, director of CYP International at Merkos 302. “There is no question that the impact will revorborate across the globe.”

Photos: Itzik Belenitzki / Shmuel Rosenblatt – CYP