Young Jewish Professionals Converge on Crown Heights

Young professionals from across the U.S. and Canada gathered in Crown Heights, Brooklyn recently to celebrate Shabbat, meet each other, and experience the warm hospitality of local families and shuls.

Held at the Jewish Children’s Museum and hosted by Lubavitch Youth Organization, the YJP Shabbaton brought together close to one hundred men and women in their 20’s and 30’s for an inspiring exploration of Judaism, and Jewish relationships.

For some, it was their first time they’d experienced Shabbat, and many were amazed by the vibrancy of the prayer experience, and the eagerness of local families to welcome them into their homes.

“I never knew Shabbat could be like this,” said one young woman from Montreal. “This amazing family hosted me for dinner and is letting me stay with them. I love these people, and their generosity. Where else would someone invite a complete stranger into their home – and 25 hours later, I feel like a member of their family!”

The program included thought-provoking talks by Dr. Gill Heart, who spoke about the power of mind-control, using techniques he learned in the IDF coupled with concepts from Tanya. There were also fascinating talks about relationships by Rabbi Yisroel Bernath and Mrs. Miriam Yerushalmi and a beautiful musical havdalah led by Indie-folk artist Moshe Hecht.

“The Shabbaton was classy, well organized and inspirational,” commented Rabbi Bernath, Chabad of NCG. “Rabbi Kastel and the LYO staff did an incredible job taking care of every last detail. We plan to come back next year with an even larger group.”

On Motzei Shabbas participants had the opportunity to visit the Rebbe’s room at 770, and Sunday morning a group trip to the Ohel. “It was a lot of fun,” said a young participant from Baltimore – I found myself surprised by the beauty of this community, and truly touched by spiritual power I felt at the Ohel. I’m still figuring out what it means for me to live a meaningful Jewish life, but this weekend is bringing me one step closer to figuring it out!”