What do thousands of Jewish teenagers—spanning nine countries and more than 125 CTeen chapters—have in common? They all participated in a worldwide Shabbat campaign called “T.G.I.S: Thank G‑d It’s Shabbat.”
An international project that has seen months of logistical planning, “T.G.I.S” gave teenagers the opportunity to experience Shabbat in a traditional Jewish environment, many for the first time. They gathered for inspiration, learning and unity, organized by CTeen international.
“These teenage experiences are life-changing,” said Rabbi Zalman Abend, director of CTeen regional events. “Many have never had the chance to celebrate Shabbat; many don’t even know what Shabbat is. This weekend will be imprinted in their memories forever.”
Individual CTeen communities—from Atlanta, Georgia; to Abuja, Nigeria; to Aubervilliers, France—hosted local Shabbat events last month, each with their own distinct flavor and style. For some, it was a Friday-night dinner. For others, it was Shabbat lunch. Still others enjoyed Havdalah and a melavah malka (meal held after nightfall on Saturday).
One initiative shared across all chapters was the 24-hour Torah program—a project dedicated to the promoting Jewish unity. Each city or community was assigned a half-hour to host a group study session, ensuring that Torah was being studied throughout the entire duration of Shabbat.
Some CTeen chapters took “T.G.I.S” to the next level, inviting nearby CTeen groups to spend Shabbat together for a joint weekend of inspiration and unity.
“It was a truly special opportunity for these teenagers,” said Rabbi Moshe Gourarie, co-director of Chabad of Toms River, N.J., describing Shabbat in nearby Atlantic City that brought together teenagers from 14 CTeen chapters across the Mid-Atlantic. “Many of them are from small cities and only have a few Jewish friends. Meeting a large group of similarly- aged Jewish teenagers with a shared background and upbringing sends the message home—that Judaism is alive and thriving.”
“The Rebbe [Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory] always stressed the power of the youth,” says Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, vice Chairman of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch, the educational arm of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. “Events like these tap into that power and channel it towards making real, life-altering change.”
The annual international CTeen Shabbaton takes place this year from Feb. 24-26. For more information, click here.
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