St. Petersburg Women’s Shabbaton Draws Record Numbers

Over five hundred Jewish women from various regions of Russia and Belarus recently participated in an empowering and unique convention titled “Reveal Your Inner Queen,” held at the Crown Plaza Hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Over five hundred Jewish women from various regions of Russia and Belarus recently participated in an empowering and unique convention titled “Reveal Your Inner Queen,” held at the Crown Plaza Hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia.

The special convention took place on the Shabbat of Purim Katan and was themed around the historical and fascinating figure of Queen Esther. The participants delved into learning from her royal ways and applying them in their daily lives as women of valor. The entire hotel was adorned with regal attire, and every aspect of the Shabbaton, from the kosher cuisine to the study sessions, lectures, prayers, and experiences, followed the path of Jewish queenship. Professional musicians, dancers, and actors dressed in majestic attire added an extra dimension to the fascinating atmosphere.

Within the palace-like corridors, an exhibition featuring informational booths about Jewish educational institutions, seminaries, higher educational institutions for women, and dozens of informal education, culture, humanitarian, and Jewish heritage projects for Jews of all ages across Russia and the FSU were displayed by the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC). Unique sales booths catered specifically to women, offering fashionable and Judaica products, were also displayed.

Throughout the convention, participants enjoyed a plethora of lectures and classes from esteemed speakers, rabbis, and educators, leaving them with vast knowledge and newfound inspiration. Among the speakers were Rabbi Baruch Gorin discussing the world of Jewish literature, Rabbi Alexander Prochansky, Rebbetzin and Chef Dorit Wagner on the world of Jewish cuisine, stylists presenting modest fashion and impressive makeup techniques, and Jewish community leaders Mrs. Yael Bergman, Mrs. Leah Kovatchik, Mrs. Rebecca Nymoy, and Mrs. Dina Deutsch, who addressed the strength of Jewish women.

On Motzai Shabbat, a magnificent ‘Melave Malka’ event took place, featuring Torah teachings and blessings led by the Chief Rabbi of Petersburg, Russia, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Pewzner. The grand event included dances, original and captivating video productions, and inspirational speeches.

Alongside a committee of experienced Chabad emissaries and leaders from Jewish communities in Russia, Mrs. Leah Lipsker spearheaded the organization of the convention, supported by the Meromim Foundation, the 770 Foundation, Rabbi David Aminov, and the European Rabbinical Center.

The Women’s Wisdom organization operates under the umbrella of “Kollel Torah”, directed by Rabbi Bentzi Lipsker, and unites activities in over a hundred cities across the FSU and Europe, with more than three thousand Jewish women participating in weekly classes. A similar number of men participate in parallel classes run “Kollel Torah” worldwide.