Rabbis’ Conference Brings Inspiration and New Partnerships to St. Petersburg
From May 29 to 31, St. Petersburg hosted the Conference of Rabbis of Russia and the CIS, bringing together about 200 rabbis, community leaders, and their families from across the region.
The conference opened with addresses by Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar, FEOR President Alexander Boroda, Chief Rabbi of St. Petersburg Menachem Mendel Pewzner, Chairman of the St. Petersburg Jewish Community Mark Grubarg, and St. Petersburg Governor Alexander Beglov. A central theme of the gathering was the responsibility to strengthen Jewish education and community life for future generations.
The program included professional discussions, workshops, and informal meetings where experienced rabbis shared practical advice with younger colleagues beginning their work in Jewish communities. Participants also attended sessions on education, leadership, and personal well-being, including a lecture by a senior physician from Rambam Medical Center.
One of the highlights of the conference was Shabbat in the Grand Choral Synagogue of St. Petersburg, which was filled with both local congregants and visiting guests. The atmosphere of unity and shared purpose left a strong impression on participants.
A particularly memorable moment was the Birkat Kohanim delivered by Rabbi Yitzhak Kogan. Although the priestly blessing is generally recited in the Diaspora only on Jewish festivals, Rabbi Kogan has a special authorization granted by the Lubavitcher Rebbe many years ago to perform it every Shabbat. At the request of conference participants, he delivered the blessing in St. Petersburg, creating one of the most moving moments of the entire gathering.
The conference also featured special programs for women, youth, and approximately one hundred children who accompanied their families. Participants of the STARS youth program met with Rabbi Berel Lazar, while women attended dedicated events including a presentation by Rebbetzin Sara Pewzner.
The final day included visits to significant sites connected with Chabad history in St. Petersburg, including the apartment on Mokhovaya Street where the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, was arrested 99 years ago, and the Peter and Paul Fortress, associated with the imprisonment of the First Lubavitcher Rebbe.
One of the conference’s key outcomes was a commitment to strengthen cooperation among rabbis and communities throughout the year through ongoing exchange of experience, educational initiatives, and joint projects.
Participants left St. Petersburg inspired by the spirit of the conference, the unique atmosphere of the city’s White Nights, and the opportunity to deepen connections across Jewish communities throughout the region.
Photos: Maria Istomina
