After a week filled with enriching Jewish content, tours, attractions, an uplifting Shabbaton, and a visit to the Jewish Ghetto commemorating 80 years since its liberation, the historic journey organized by YAHAD to Shanghai, China, concluded with remarkable success. Over 800 Jewish students from Russia and other former Soviet Union countries took part, culminating in two especially touching marriage proposals.
The journey, meticulously organized, was the rewarding outcome of a full year of dedicated participation in an engaging Jewish studies program. Under the leadership of Russia’s Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar and Rabbi Mendy Wilansky, Director of YAHAD operating under the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC), this was the 12th such journey, marking another milestone in Jewish youth engagement.
Throughout the week, the participants enjoyed a vibrant schedule combining meaningful Jewish content with entertainment and exploration. The program included performances, attractions, sightseeing tours, social activities, high-standard hospitality, lectures, and workshops. Notably, the itinerary featured a visit to the ancient Water City, a world-class circus show, and tours of Shanghai’s famous boulevards and markets, blending historical and modern elements. An international car exhibition in Shanghai also captivated the participants.
A particularly emotional moment came during the visit to the Jewish Ghetto and Holocaust Museum in Shanghai, commemorating 80 years since its liberation. The experience profoundly impacted the young participants, enriching their connection to Jewish history and identity.
The most memorable event occurred on the last day of the journey, during an excursion to Shanghai Disneyland, where two couples from the group stood at the center of the gathering and joyfully announced their decision to get married and build a Jewish home together. This touching moment followed a heartfelt appeal by Rabbi Lazar during the Friday night gathering, encouraging participants to make meaningful life decisions and promising support for those choosing to establish a Jewish home.
The successful journey, filled with educational and joyful experiences, left a lasting impression on all who participated, reinforcing their commitment to Jewish identity and community life.
