Encounter 2025 Schedule

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Dedicated to the everlasting memory of Rabbi Moshe

KotlarskyOB"M

Chairman of Chabad Young Professionals International

Who devoted his life to spreading the light of Judaism and the Rebbe’s message to every corner of the world.

The next 48 hours are bound to be your most enjoyable and inspirational yet. Together with other like-minded young professionals, you’ll get to imbibe the spirit and experience the power of a Shabbat weekend in the most peaceful surroundings. Attached is a full schedule and a map of Crown Heights.

We’re so happy you made it. Please feel free to let us know if there is any way to make your experience more enjoyable.

Sincerely,

VENUES:

770 - CHABAD LUBAVITCH WORLD HEADQUARTERS

770 Eastern Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11213

JCM - JEWISH CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

792 Eastern Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11213

OHOLEI TORAH

667 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11213

OHEL CHABAD LUBAVITCH

226-20 Francis Lewis Blvd. Cambria Heights, NY 11411

THE REBBE’S OFFICE

770 Eastern Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11213

THE REBBE’S HOUSE

1304 President St. Brooklyn, NY 11213

HELPFUL TIP:

Please make sure to arrange a key or code for the late night re-entry to your host’s home.

1304 President Street Brooklyn, NY 11213

Schenectady

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17

REGULAR TRACK

(For met at chabad track see next page)

9:00 AM

REGISTRATION OPENS / LIGHT BREAKFAST

Begin your day by checking in and enjoying a warm coffee and light breakfast. Meet fellow attendees and prepare for a meaningful day ahead.

Venue: Jewish Children’s MuseumLower Level

9:30 AM

CROWN HEIGHTS TOURS BEGIN

Explore the heart of Crown Heights with guided tours showcasing the community's rich history and vibrant Jewish life. (Tours will run in 4 shifts every half hour to accommodate all attendees.)

Venue: Jewish Children’s MuseumLower Level

12:30 PM LUNCH

Relish a delicious meal while continuing to connect with attendees.

Venue: Jewish Children’s MuseumLevel 2

1:15 PM

RETURN TO HOST HOMES TO PREPARE FOR SHABBAT

Take a break and prepare for the highlight of the week – Shabbat in Crown Heights!

MET AT CHABAD TRACK

(Regular track continues at 3:15PM)

9:00 AM

REGISTRATION OPENS / LIGHT BREAKFAST

Begin your day by checking in and enjoying a warm coffee and light breakfast. Meet fellow attendees and prepare for a meaningful day ahead.

Venue: Jewish Children’s MuseumLower Level

10:00 AM

WALK OVER TO THE DATING EVENT

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom

10:30 AM

THE BIG TIMED DATE

Led by Mrs. Manya Lazaroff, this dynamic speed dating event is designed to bring you one step closer to finding your perfect match—your future husband or wife. Through guided conversations and meaningful connections, you'll have the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals in a fun and purposeful environment.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom

12:30 PM

COCKTAIL LUNCH

Enjoy a relaxed meal and continue conversations in the cozy atmosphere.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lobby

1:15 PM

RETURN TO HOST HOMES TO PREPARE FOR SHABBAT

• Take a break and prepare for the highlight of the week – Shabbat in Crown Heights!

• Walk down Kingston Avenue and watch Crown eights prepare for Shabbat.

• The Rebbe's room will be open from 1pm – 2pm at 770 Eastern Parkway.

ALL TRACKS

3:15 PM

“THE DECISION OF A LIFETIME” BY JIM KAPENSTEIN

Kick off the journey into Shabbat with an inspiring keynote by Jim Kapenstein, Senior Vice President at Walt Disney. Jim will share his powerful story of navigating major life decisions, offering clarity, courage, and valuable lessons. This session is designed to prepare us emotionally and spiritually for the sacred experience of Shabbat, encouraging reflection on our decisions as we enter a day of rest and renewal.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom

Non-recorded confidential event, please don’t bring phones. - leave phones at host home - come ready for Shabbat.

4:15 PM

WOMEN’S SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY

Experience the beauty and serenity of Shabbat candle lighting as women come together to usher in the sacred day. Feel the transformative power of light as we prepare to welcome Shabbat with intention and unity. Led by Rebbetzin Chanie Lazaroff, codirector of Chabad of Uptown Texas.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom 2

MEN’S AFTERNOON SERVICES & MELODIES TO WELCOME SHABBAT

Men will gather for Mincha (afternoon prayers) and uplifting Shabbat melodies to set the tone for a meaningful and spiritual evening. This inspiring service will help everyone transition into the sanctity of Shabbat.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Ballroom

4:45 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT SERVICES

Join us for an inspiring and meaningful Kabbalat Shabbat and evening prayers. This communal service is designed to uplift and unite as we immerse ourselves in the joy and peace of Shabbat.

Led by: Rabbi Yigal Rosenberg – Dynamic leader of Chabad Santa Clara and the SiliconJew Professionals Network.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Ballroom

5:30 PM

KIDDUSH AND HAPPY HOUR

Join us for a joyous Kiddush and mingle over refreshments, celebrating the warmth and unity of Shabbat.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom

7:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT MEALS IN CROWN HEIGHTS AT HOST HOME

Join local families for a delicious Shabbat dinner and immerse yourself in the vibrant Crown Heights community. Savor traditional dishes and enjoy

heartfelt conversations with your hosts.

Venue: Homes in Crown Heights

10:00 PM

GET THE GUY/GIRL

An uncensored, gender-specific talk on everything that sets you apart and can bring you together. (for couples and singles)

MEN

Led by Rabbi Shais Taub

Highly sought-after speaker, bestselling author, and columnist.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Fireplace Room

WOMEN

Led by Rebbetzin Manya Lazaroff Dating coach and author of the acclaimed course "Sober Dating."

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Ballroom

10:00 PM

“MAKE PEACE: A STRATEGIC GUIDE FOR ACHIEVING LASTING PEACE IN ISRAEL”

A talk by Rabbi Elisha Perl, author of the book Make Peace.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom

11:30 PM

FARBRENGEN

Choose from three soul-stirring options, or just chill in the lounge.

1. “FROM TATTOO TO RABBI: LET ME EXPLAIN HOW I GOT HERE” WITH DOVID BRASLAWCE

A candid and inspiring Farbrengen about personal transformation and identity, sharing the journey from unexpected beginnings to spiritual growth.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom

2. “WHAT I WISH I KNEW” WITH LEO BRAUDY

(CONTESTANT

FROM LOVE IS BLIND SEASON 7) AND RABBI SHAIS TAUB.

A fascinating Farbrengen about personal growth, lessons learned, and cultivating meaningful relationships.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Fireplace Room

Moderated by: Rabbi Levik Dubov, Director of Chabad of Downtown Orlando and host of The “Everyday Rabbi” Podcast.

3. "POSITIVITY & RESILIENCE: FINDING PEACE IN CHAOS"

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. This Farbrengen will explore life while we cultivate positivity, build resilience, and find inner peace amidst life's challenges.

Led by Rebbetzin Gitty Webb, co-director of Chabad at Princeton University.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom 2

4. LOUNGE HANGOUT

Enjoy hanging out in our lounge for informal conversations and a relaxed atmosphere.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Living Room

SHABBOS, JANUARY 18

8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

BREAKFAST

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast to prepare for an inspiring Shabbat ahead.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Lobby

9:00 AM

TASTE

OF YESHIVA TRACK: CHASSIDUS

LEARNING

Dive into the depths of Chassidus with a guided study session to explore its profound teachings and insights.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Ballroom

10:00 AM

TASTE OF YESHIVA TRACK: CLASS BY RABBI YOSSI LIPKSER (GUYS)

Join Rabbi Yossi Lipkser, Rabbi at Chabad of Sherman Oaks, for a text based engaging class delving deeper into the timeless lessons of Chassidus.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level

Ballroom

YESHIVA TRACK: CLASS (GIRLS)

Join a thought-provoking and empowering Chavruta-style learning session exploring the teachings of Chassidus alongside local Crown Heights girls.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Classroom 2

CHASSIDUS PHILOSOPHY

CLASS BY RABBI SHAIS TAUB

Explore profound insights and transformative teachings from Chassidus, shared by Rabbi Shais Taub.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Living Room

10:30 AM

MORNING PRAYERS

Participate in Shacharit (morning prayers), an opportunity to elevate your spirit and connect through meaningful tefillah.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Ballroom

11:00 AM

“WAKING

UP TO LIFE” BY MANYA LAZAROFF

Explore the profound depth and transformative power of prayer, uncovering its significance in our daily lives.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level

Classroom #1

12:00 PM

"TRAUMA,

THERAPY, AND PRAYER" BY JILL KAPENSTEIN - LICENSED PROFESSIONAL CLINICAL COUNSELOR

Gain insight into how prayer and spiritual practices intersect with trauma therapy and healing. Presented by Jill Kapenstein, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level

Classroom #3

1:00 PM

LUNCH

Enjoy a Shabbat meal filled with warmth, connection, and delicious food.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom

3:30 PM

CROSSFIRE DISCUSSION

Engage in a lively and thoughtprovoking conversation where no question is off-limits.

FEATURING:

Rabbi Shais Taub – Renowned speaker, author, and expert in Jewish mysticism and recovery from addiction.

Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff – Director of Chabad of Uptown in Houston, known for his dynamic outreach and educational programs.

Rabbi Mendel Winner - Rabbi at Chabad Neshama Center, Brighton Beach, NY & host of the popular podcast: "Torah Unboxed".

Venue: Oholei Torah - Fireplace Room

Moderated by: Rabbi Rafi Chemel director of Chabad on Bayview, Toronto, Ontario.

SOCIAL NETWORKING EVENT

Hear Torah's perspective on your field of interest. Build meaningful connections with fellow attendees in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

ENGINEERING, TECHNOLOGY,

AND COMPUTER SCIENCE.

Led by Rabbi Eitan Shilov –Chabad RC of Sunny Isles Florida

HEALTHCARE, MEDICINE, AND LIFE SCIENCES

Led by Rabbi Levi Perlmutter –Chabad of Long Beach California

EDUCATION, SOCIAL SCIENCES, AND HUMAN SERVICES.

Led by Rabbi Yankel Oster – codirector of the JGrads program at Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri.

CREATIVE ARTS, MEDIA, AND

COMMUNICATIONS.

Led by Rabbi Mordechei Lightstone – director of social media for Chabad.org and founder of Tech Tribe.

SKILLED TRADES, ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES, AND NATURAL RESOURCES.

Led Rabbi Yossi Freedman –Director at Chabad of Downtown Cleveland

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Classrooms.

JGRAD TALK: "THE ART OF EFFECTIVE NEGOTIATING"

A session specifically for grad students featuring Jim Kapenstein, offering insights and strategies for mastering the art of negotiation.

Moderated by Rabbi Mendel Rapoport, Director of JGrads Chabad at University of Chicago.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Ballroom

4:30 PM

TALK: "HOW TO JUGGLE CORPORATE AND JEWISH LIFE"

A special session with Jim and Jill Kapenstein on finding a balance between professional success and Jewish living.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Fireplace Room

MINCHA AND SEDER NIGGUNIM (GUYS)

Participate in afternoon prayers (Mincha) followed by uplifting melodies that set the tone for a spiritual close to Shabbat.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Ballroom

SOUL AND SONG: A WOMEN’S-ONLY SEDER NIGGUNIM

Join us for an uplifting and soulful evening of singing Chassidic songs (niggunim) in an intimate, womenonly setting.

Venue: Oholei Torah - Lower Level Classroom.

5:41 PM

SHABBAT CONCLUDES

Mark the end of Shabbat as we transition into a joyful Saturday night celebration.

8:30 PM

LIVE UP SATURDAY NIGHT

Open Bar, Havdalah, and Concert End Shabbat on a high note with an incredible night of celebration.

FEATURING:

• World-Renowned Band

• Live Music and Delicious Food

• Vibrant Party and Community Vibes

• Mingle with your Jewish community and dance the night away in a festive and uplifting atmosphere.

DOORS OPEN: 8:30 PM

PROGRAM BEGINS: 8:45 PM

Venue: Oholei Torah - Main Ballroom

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19 9:45 AM

BUSES DEPART FROM CROWN HEIGHTS

Gather at Kingston Ave and President St as buses roll out to the Rebbe’s Ohel.

Departure Location: Kingston Ave and President St

10:45 AM

ARRIVAL AT OHEL CHABAD LUBAVITCH

Buses arrive at Ohel Chabad Lubavitch.

Address: 226-20 Francis Lewis Blvd, Cambria Heights, NY 11411

11:15 AM

AN INTIMATE ENCOUNTER

Join for an inspirational program filled with reflections and uplifting thoughts to prepare for the special moment ahead.

Venue: Last Tent at Ohel Chabad

12:00 PM

ENTER THE REBBE’S OHEL

Spend time in prayer and connection at the sacred resting place of the Rebbe.

12:30 PM

BRUNCH & CLOSING REMARKS

Enjoy a delicious brunch to refuel and reflect on the meaningful morning.

Venue: Backyard Tent, 221-14 121st Ave, Cambria Heights, NY 114

2:00 PM

BUSES DEPART

Buses will load to return attendees to airports or back to Crown Heights.

Departure Location: Ohel Chabad Lubavitch

www.cypshabbat.nyc

www.chabadyoungcom

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