EUPJ Shabbaton in Vienna
The 2024 European Union for Progressive Judaism (EUPJ) Shabbaton in Vienna was an enriching and uplifting event, bringing together over 30 participants from nine countries—Italy, Spain, France, Hungary, Poland, the UK, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Israel. They were joined by around 20 members of the host community, Or Chadasch, for the duration of the Shabbaton. The presence of numerous young adult participants was particularly inspiring, fostering a diverse group that drew on the wisdom of the past while enthusiastically looking to the future. The gathering truly showcased the vibrancy and diversity of European Progressive Judaism.
Friday, 29 November
The Shabbaton began on Friday afternoon with a warm welcome 
and an engaging opening session. Participants were greeted by Rabbi Lea Mühlstein, Chair of the EUPJ and Senior Rabbi at The Ark Synagogue, and Dr Eric Frey, chair of the board of Or Chadasch, setting a tone of collaboration and community. The session featured three dynamic roundtable discussions that explored best practices for nurturing sustainable congregations, engaging the next generation of leaders, and strengthening visibility and representation for Progressive Jewish communities across Europe.
As evening approached, attendees walked together to Or Chadasch for Shabbat services. The service, led beautifully by Or Chadash’s rabbi Tobias Moss and attended by over 100 people, created a powerful atmosphere of unity and spiritual connection. The day concluded with a communal
dinner at Hotel Stefanie, where Shabbaton participants and local members shared stories, deepened connections, and celebrated the start of Shabbat.
Saturday, 30 November
Saturday’s activities began with a Shabbat morning service, which included the welcoming of a new Torah scroll for Or Chadash. The Torah had previously been owned by Leo Hepner z’l and was homed for decades at London’s West Central Synagogue. As Regina Hepner, Leo’s widow remarked after the service, it is clear that the scroll has found a good new home. In the afternoon, participants delved into Vienna’s rich Jewish history during a walking tour of the city’s 1st and 2nd districts. This immersive experience highlighted Vienna’s Jewish heritage and resilience, offering profound insights into the community’s past and present as well as an important reminder of the central place that Viennese Jews played in literature, the arts, psychiatry and, of course, Zionism.
Following the tour, attendees gathered at Hotel Stefanie for tea, coffee, and cake, which provided an informal setting for networking and camaraderie. The day culminated with Havdalah and a keynote session titled “If not now, when? Building Stronger Israel-Diaspora Connections for Our Shared Future.” Yaron Shavit, Vice Chair of the Jewish Agency for Israel, delivered an inspiring address that sparked lively breakout discussions and reflections on the shared challenges and opportunities facing Israel and the Diaspora. The youthful energy and diverse perspectives of the participants contributed significantly to these forward-looking conversations.
Sunday, 1 December
The final day of the Shabbaton offered parallel sessions, including the EUPJ Executive Board Meeting and an open discussion to help participants understand the need for a strong Progressive representation at the upcoming World Zionist Congress. These sessions allowed participants to focus on future goals and collaborative strategies for advancing Progressive Judaism in Europe and beyond.
For those staying longer, the post-Shabbaton program featured a visit to the Jewish Museum to explore the poignant exhibit “The Third Generation – The Holocaust in Family Memory.” Additionally, a concert by the Triora trio at Or Chadasch provided an inspiring cultural conclusion to the weekend.
Impact and Reflections
The Shabbaton was a resounding success, fostering cross-border connections and shared learning among Progressive Jewish communities. The diverse group, bolstered by the enthusiastic presence of young adults, exemplified the movement’s commitment to building on its rich history while embracing the potential of the next generation. The high turnout for the Friday night service from the local community, combined with the collaborative spirit evident throughout the weekend, highlighted the enduring vitality of our movement. Participants departed with renewed energy, ideas, and commitments to strengthening their communities and forging a brighter, united future.
