Nearly 2,000 students from 175 colleges gathered in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, this past weekend, for Pegisha—three days of learning, spiritual growth, joy, socializing, and sightseeing, organized by Chabad on Campus International.
It’s an opportunity for Jewish students to be immersed in Jewish life among thousands of their peers—where being proudly Jewish isn’t “other” and doesn’t need to be explained or defended.
Here are five glimpses into the weekend that make us swell with pride for our youth, our future, and our present.
1. Thousands Pray at the Rebbe’s Ohel
Seventeen students attended the first Pegisha in 1961, organized by Rabbi Yaacov Hanoka, at the Rebbe’s suggestion. It has since become Chabad on Campus International’s largest program. On Sunday, this year’s 2,000 participants had the opportunity to visit and pray at the Rebbe’s resting place.
2. Proud to Be Publicly Jewish
When asked their favorite Jewish thing to do in public, the students didn’t hesitate. At a time when people are being told to be afraid to be identifiably Jewish in public, these kids aren’t hiding!
3. Even Louder and Prouder!
Feeling the joy of camaraderie with thousands of their peers, students broke out into spontaneous dance on the streets of Crown heights, singing It’s geshmak to be a Yid, “It’s awesome to be Jewish!”
4. It’s Cool to Find Your Rabbi and Rebbetzin Cool
Can every campus rabbi and rebbetzin win the title of “coolest”? These students certainly think so!
5. Closing Out Shabbat With Song and Dance
For many students, Pegisha is their first immersive Shabbat experience. Riding the Shabbat high, the 2,000 students gathered for a musical Havdalah ceremony and concert.
