The Farbrengen Retreat, led by Rabbi Gavriel Kollin, recently hosted an unforgettable Shabbaton in the Pocono Mountains, leaving a lasting impact on every participant.
Eighteen neshamos boarded the iconic Farbrengen Retreat bus—affectionately known by the bochurim as “Busya”—early Friday morning, excited for a weekend of growth, connection, and inspiration. Upon arriving in the Poconos, the group spent the day swimming, playing frisbee, participating in team-building activities, bonding with one another, and reconnecting with nature and its beauty.
Before Shabbos, the bochurim gathered in small groups with staff members to learn Chassidus, setting the tone for a meaningful and uplifting Shabbos. They welcomed Shabbos with a beautiful Kabbalas Shabbos—remarkably, the first one many of the participants had experienced in months.
One of the most meaningful parts of the weekend was the retreat’s signature “Circle Time,” where every bochur was invited to share whatever was on his heart in a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment. Many participants describe Circle Time as the highlight of every retreat, giving them the opportunity to connect with peers facing similar challenges while experiencing the genuine care, openness, and acceptance of the staff.
Maariv was followed by a spirited Shabbos seudah filled with singing, divrei Torah, laughter, and heartfelt conversation that continued late into the night before naturally transitioning into board games and meaningful one-on-one discussions.
The energy of the group continued throughout Shabbos. Local mispallelim who joined the minyan were deeply moved by the warmth and enthusiasm of the bochurim. Time and again during davening, the Farbrengen Retreat participants invited fellow chassidim to join hands in joyous singing and dancing. At one point, several local chassidim even placed their shtreimels on the bochurim’s heads—a powerful display of love, unity, and acceptance. It was a scene that undoubtedly brought tremendous nachas to Hashem. Only at the Farbrengen Retreat could you witness someone wearing shorts, Crocs, and a shtreimel, all at the same time.
Following an uplifting and rejuvenating Shabbos, the group enjoyed a late-night swim and an outdoor barbecue under the stars.
On Sunday, the bochurim embarked on a scenic hike that culminated at a breathtaking waterfall, where many embraced the adventure with an exhilarating cliff jump.
One participant summed up the weekend by sharing:
“I feel like I’m in paradise. This past Shabbos was the first one I’ve kept in six months, and it’s the longest I’ve been off my phone in years. The real human connection and genuine love from the staff is so refreshing, and I’m so grateful. I’m definitely going home different than how I came.”
The Shabbaton concluded with a visit to the Ohel. Throughout the drive, the bus was filled with heartfelt niggunim, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere. At the Ohel, many of the bochurim put on tefillin, accepted tzitzis, and took time to strengthen their connection with the Rebbe through heartfelt prayer and reflection.
The group then returned to Crown Heights, where they celebrated the conclusion of an extraordinary weekend together at Joseph’s Dream.
The Farbrengen Retreat continues to provide a welcoming environment where every bochur is valued, supported, and inspired to reconnect with himself, with others, and with Yiddishkeit.
Those who would like to partner in this vital shlichus and help make future retreats possible are invited to contribute.
Cash App: $Gavrielkollin
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