Friday morning marked an extraordinary moment in Budapest, as more than 500 Jewish teenagers from 28 countries across Europe came together for the continent’s largest Jewish youth gathering.
Taking place as part of the European Jewish Teen Congress — organized by EMIH (the Unified Hungarian Jewish Community) and CTeen International, the world’s largest Jewish teen network — the event brought young people together in a moving show of Jewish pride and resilience, set in the heart of the city’s historic former Jewish Ghetto.
Among the participants were ten teenagers from Moldova, who played an active role in the program, accompanied by Shliach Rabbi Shneur Zalman Tifenbrun, who leads and oversees the CTeen chapter in Moldova.
“This gathering sends a powerful message of hope. Despite the challenges, Jewish teens across Europe are standing strong — and only growing stronger,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky of Chabad World Headquarters. “Moments like these create a ripple effect. Every teen here will bring renewed strength back to their homes, their friends, and their communities.”
The program opened with remarks from Hungary’s Head Shliach, Rabbi Baruch Oberlander, followed by an address from Israel’s Ambassador, Maya Kadosh. Three teenagers led Torah readings, showcasing the emerging leadership of the next generation of European Jewry. IDF reservist Noam Buskilla then inspired the crowd with a heartfelt prayer for Jews worldwide and a spirited chorus of “Am Yisroel Chai”.
For many of these teenagers — some being the only Jewish pupils in their entire school — this gathering serves as a vital lifeline. Over the course of the weekend, they took part in workshops addressing the realities they encountered, explored the relevance of their heritage, shared their personal stories, and celebrated Shabbat together as one united and empowered community.
