Teens Wrap Tefillin 3,000 Times
by Shloimy Galperin
Ninety-six teenage boys from fourteen countries recently completed a thirty-day commitment to put on tefillin every day, resulting in nearly 3,000 wraps.
Upon returning home from CTeen Summer Balaton, Yitzi Rich of Manchester, England, was determined to keep the connection of his experience going. So together with his new friends, fellow participants on the trip, he joined a WhatsApp group called “Tefillin Boys,” where the teens commit to a Tefillin Challenge and share selfies to encourage each other.
The original Tefillin challenge, started several years ago, has now become a yearly tradition among CTeen Summer alumni.“Before the trip, I only put on tefillin occasionally,” said Rich. “But now, many of us have continued even after the challenge ended. It impacted us more than expected.”
“Teens like Yitzi and his friends are what this trip is all about,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302 and Chairman of CTeen International. “The summer gives them a spark, but the real impact shines when they return inspired to illuminate their own communities.”
To help encourage participation, CTeen alumnus Matias Lancewicki, CEO at Ezri, a premium backpack brand, offered his backpacks as a reward for the challenge. But the impact went far beyond incentives. Many teens continue putting on tefillin months later, long after the challenge ended.
“My inspiration came from the trip,” said Evan, a CTeen Israel Journey participant from Harrisburg, PA, “I discovered so much about our history. I remember thinking: Look how much the Jewish people have endured, and the faith they’ve maintained through it all. Putting on tefillin is a way to connect to that!”
Each CTeen summer trip is crafted to help participants deepen their Jewish identity. Whether it’s the trek through the breathtaking mountains of Colorado on CTeen Xtreme, the winding stone corridors of Jerusalem with Israel Journey, or on Heritage Quest, confronting the painful chapters of our history at Auschwitz, each journey ignites Jewish pride and gives teens the tools to lead when they return home.
“Preparing for a successful summer requires tremendous effort,” said Rabbi Nachman Rivkin, director of CTeen Summer at Merkos 302. “But just as much energy goes into what comes next. We’re always looking for ways to keep teens engaged throughout the year.”
Uplifted by the enchanting tune of Lecha Dodi sung one Friday night during the summer program, one camper made the firm resolution–right then and there–to go to shul more often. When he got back home, he called up his local Shliach, who was struggling for a weekly minyan, and committed to join the Chabad House services twice a month. His attendance continuously helps complete the minyan.
Inspired by the Rebbe’s vision of summer as a launchpad for lasting spiritual growth, the teens continue their journey long after the trip ends. Virtual meetups, care packages, mitzvah initiatives, and holiday programs help them stay connected, engaged, and proud of their Jewish identity.
“We don’t say goodbye when camp ends,” said Rabbi Mendy Lepkivker, CTeen Summer coordinator at Merkos 302. “Our staff stays in touch, offering teens support throughout the year, whether they’re facing challenges at school, want to study the weekly Torah portion, or just need someone who understands. We are here.”
