First-Ever Spanish-Speaking Shabbaton Ignites Jewish Pride Across Latin America
Against the dynamic backdrop of Panama City, Spanish-speaking Jewish women from 15 Latin American countries gathered for the inaugural Oasis Espiritual Shabbaton, organized by the Spanish Desk at Merkos 302.
In a year marked by global challenges to Jewish identity, the Shabbaton created a rare opportunity for Spanish-speaking Jewish women to draw strength from one another.
Over the course of four uplifting days, women representing a diverse spectrum of observance came together to farbreng, learn, connect, and inspire. Regardless of country or background, each participant left strengthened in her Yiddishkeit and proud of her Jewish identity.
The idea for the Shabbaton was born after a group of Spanish-speaking women attended the Merkos 302 Spanish trip to Crown Heights and visited the Ohel. That experience left them inspired—and longing for more Jewish experiences tailored to their language and culture.
What began as a dream soon became reality, thanks to the dedication of Rabbi Chai Kohan, director of Merkos 302’s Spanish Desk, which develops programming and curriculum for Spanish-speaking Jews worldwide.
The landmark retreat was organized under the leadership of Panama’s Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi and Head Shliach, Rabbi Aaron Laine, and his wife, Rebbetzin Fradel Laine, together with a Vaad of Shluchos: Mrs. Chani Liberow of Barranquilla, Colombia, and Mrs. Chana Spalter of Costa Rica.
“The Rebbe emphasized the unique influence women have to elevate their families and communities, and how joining together amplifies that power,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “This retreat gave Spanish-speaking Jewish women the chance to connect, empower one another, and return home with that strength to inspire their communities with renewed pride and purpose.”
The program included inspirational workshops, gourmet catered meals, spirited farbrengens, seder niggunim, and excursions to iconic sites like the Panama Canal. But more than an event, it was a transformative spiritual journey.
Throughout the weekend, participants were deeply moved by heartfelt stories of Jewish perseverance and resilience shared by women from Chile, Colombia, Argentina, and Uruguay. Central themes such as bitachon, the unique power of Jewish women, and the Rebbe’s vision for female leadership resonated across the program.
Whether participants were newly discovering Judaism or had studied in seminary in Israel, all left with a profound sense of belonging, sisterhood, and unity.
As Cecilia G. from Buenos Aires reflected, “This was my first time attending a program like this. I can’t say enough how much I loved it! I left with a full soul and can’t wait for the next one.”
Photos: Kike Lee/Merkos 302
