Russian-Speaking Jews Gather in Seattle for Shabbaton

The first ever Shabbaton for Russian-speaking Jews of the Pacific Northwest took place last weekend, under the auspices of Rabbi Yechezkel and Ora Rapoport, co-directors of the Chabad of the Pacific Northwest Russian Program.

More than 120 people from Russian-speaking Jewish communities, from as far away as British Columbia and Idaho, attended the event.

Featured speakers included:  Rabbi Boruch Gorin, head of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia; Rob Jacobs, Regional Director of StandWithUs Northwest; Seattle educator Rabbi Shimon Emlen; and noted doctor, psychologist and writer, Nechama Milson.

The retreat offered participants a weekend of spiritual experience and learning, in the beautiful setting of the Alderbrook Resort & Spa in Seattle, Washington.

“We are happy that our first attempt was such a success. We are looking forward to making this an annual event for Russian-speaking Jews of the Pacific Northwest,” said Rabbi Rapoport.