Spanish-speaking Jewish women from around the world are gathering in Panama City for a unique spiritual retreat. Organized by Merkos 302’s Spanish Desk, the trip blends immersive Jewish learning with the rich culture of a thriving Jewish community.
This spring, Spanish-speaking women from across the globe will converge in Panama City for a weekend of inspiration, learning, and connection, organized by the Spanish Desk at Merkos 302.
This retreat is part of a growing series of Shabbatons designed to provide Spanish-speaking women with a meaningful Jewish experience in their native tongue. In early November, participants from Miami, Costa Rica, and Panama joined for a weekend in Crown Heights and the Ohel, leaving inspired and eager for more.
"It's one thing to grow spiritually on your own, but it’s completely different when you’re part of a community," says Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky of Merkos 302. "Our goal is to create curated spaces where Jews seeking to learn, can come together, learn from each other, and support each other’s journeys."
Reflecting on the Crown Heights trip, Susan, a participant from Miami, shared, “Standing in the place where the Rebbe’s teachings spread forth, together with other women, was an experience that filled me with emotion and gratitude. Every detail of the weekend was so well planned it left a deep mark on my soul and spirit. I’m looking forward to the next experience.”
Building off the response from Shluchim and participants, Rabbi Chai Kohan, director of the Spanish Desk at Merkos 302, began planning the next retreat. Partnering with the local Jewish community of Panama City and their BetEl synagogue, he designed a program that blends Jewish inspiration with the city’s well-developed kosher infrastructure.
“Panama City was an easy choice for our next location,” says Rabbi Chai Kohan. “With both easy access to nature and a robust Jewish community willing and able to host a spectacular weekend, the city promises the perfect setting for the women to connect with new friends, and engage with their heritage deeply.”
The program boasts catered kosher meals and addresses by notable Spanish-speaking scholars. It includes interactive seminars, allowing participants to engage in deep Torah learning, an opportunity some may have never experienced before. Of course, the weekend also features touring local sites including a visit to the historic Panama Canal.
To ensure the integrity of the event, registration is only available through a participant’s local Chabad house.
The “Spiritual Oasis” Shabbaton is taking place from Thursday, April 25, to Sunday, April 28. An early-bird discount ends February 16. More details and registration can be found at oasisespiritual.com
The program is dedicated in memory of Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky OBM—לעילוי נשמת הרה”ח הרב משה יהודא בן הרה”ח צבי יוסף ע”ה קאטלארסקי
Comments