CTeen’s annual European Jewish Youth Congress, uniting chapters from across the continent for an international display of Jewish pride, showcased the extraordinary impact of individual teens throughout the region in these unprecedented times. Participants left empowered in their roles as leaders in their communities.
For 500 Jewish teens from 25 European countries, Berlin became the setting for an unforgettable weekend celebrating Jewish pride and unity despite all odds. Organized by the Chabad Jewish Community of Berlin and CTeen International at Merkos 302, the annual European Jewish Youth Congress, the largest gathering of its kind on the continent, provided teens with a meaningful experience packed with connection, inspiration, and personal growth.
Hosted in Berlin by Rabbi Yehuda Teichtel, the city’s Head Shliach, and Rabbi Dovid Teichtel, Youth Director of the Rohr Chabad Center, the Shabbaton returned to the city where it first began 11 years ago. Opening on Thursday and spanning till Sunday, the parallel program for boys and girls blended bonding games, guided tefillos, and interactive leadership workshops led by CTeen Rabbis and Rebbetzins. Teens left empowered to embrace their heritage and strengthen their roles as leaders in their communities.
“This isn’t the first time we have faced challenging times. Throughout history the Jewish people have always responded with increased vigor and commitment,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, executive director of Merkos 302 and Chairman of CTeen International, the world’s largest movement of Jewish teens. “Seeing these teens do exactly that—proudly standing by our values—gives us tremendous hope. As they return home they are infusing that energy into their communities, bolstering Jewish life with their passion and dedication.”
A musical Havdalla ceremony marked an emotional highlight of the Shabbos. Tears flowed as two teens who recently lost their mother were honored to hold the candle, underscoring the sense of shared strength and support that defined the weekend. The closing ceremony showcased TED-style ‘Teen Talks,’ where participants shared personal stories and their visions for the future.
Among the featured teen speakers, Lillian Kahn from Prague, Czech Republic, whose father grew up in Kibbutz Nir Oz, opened with a heartfelt prayer for the hostages in Gaza. Freya Goldstone from Manchester, UK, reflected on her CTeen Summer trip to the concentration camps in Poland and how it inspired her commitment to keeping the Jewish flame alive.
Summing up the weekend’s impact, Freya concluded, “By carrying on the traditions that were taken from our ancestors. Lighting our Shabbos candles. Celebrating our holidays. Learning Torah. Building families. These are the ways we bring light into the world, ensuring that no matter what challenges come, the Jewish flame continues to shine brightly.”
The Shabbaton included a powerful visit to Berlin’s historic Brandenburg Gate. Once a symbol of division and darkness, the site was transformed as hundreds of Jewish teens stood together and recited Shema Yisrael in unison. Rabbi Shimon Rivkin, Director of CTeen International at Merkos 302, declared at the rally, “We don’t fight the darkness; rather, we share our light until the darkness disappears.”
