For five days this summer, the usual routines of work, errands, and daily responsibilities were replaced with full days of Torah learning and meaningful conversations.

Dozens of participants from across North America, including Kentucky, Maryland, California, Pennsylvania, Arkansas, and New York, gathered at the Jewish Discovery Center in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, for the JNet Torah Experience. The five-day program gave adults the opportunity to step away from their everyday lives and devote themselves completely to Torah study.

Since its launch 2006, JNet has connected tens of thousands of Jews around the world with volunteer chavrusas for weekly Torah study over the phone or Zoom. Over time, many participants expressed a desire for something more. They wanted the chance to experience what it is like to spend several days living in an environment centered entirely around Torah. The JNet Torah Experience was created to meet that need by combining serious learning, inspiring teachers, comfortable accommodations, and the friendships that naturally develop when people learn and live together.

“It’s one thing to study Torah over the phone or on a screen, but what people need now more than ever is to see it come to life, to be fully immersed in it alongside a like-minded community,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Chairman of JNet at Merkos 302. “Many of our JNet participants are the only Jews in their towns, so this experience of knowing they aren’t alone, of feeling part of a vibrant collective, is critical to strengthening their Jewish identity back home.”

The program followed the schedule of a yeshiva for adults. Each day included shiurim in Chassidus, Gemara, Halacha, Chumash, Jewish philosophy, and practical Judaism. Classes were designed for participants of every background, from complete beginners to experienced learners.

Rabbi Mendel Raichik of Gaithersburg, MD and Mrs. Chaya Teldon, Head Shlucha of Long Island, directed the men’s and women’s programs respectively, and invested months of planning into developing a learning curriculum that would be engaging, challenging, and accessible for participants at every level. From selecting the topics and organizing the schedule to personally teaching throughout the week, they worked tirelessly to ensure that every participant could grow in Torah learning and leave with a deeper connection to Judaism.

The learning was enriched by guest lecturers Rabbi Yitzchak Hanoka, Senior Rabbinic Coordinator overseeing the Tri-State area for OK Kosher Certification, Rabbi Yossi Serebryanski, Sofer, Rabbi Leibel Itkin, Shliach to Scranton, PA, Rabbi Yosef Rapaport, Education Director of The Jewish Discovery Center, and Rabbi Tuvia Teldon, Head Shliach of Long Island. Each brought his own style, personality, and area of expertise, exposing participants to a wide range of Torah perspectives. Their classes sparked thoughtful discussions and gave participants the opportunity to learn from experienced educators with diverse backgrounds and approaches.

Mrs. Mattie Hecht, Mendy and Breina Blesofsky, Sholom Bronstein, and Mendel Majeski served as chabura leaders, offering personal guidance and one on one learning throughout the week. They took the time to answer questions, review material, and help participants process what they were learning, making the experience more personal and meaningful.

Rabbi Benny and Chani Rapaport, the local Shluchim in Clarks Summit, warmly welcomed everyone and helped create the warm, inviting atmosphere that participants appreciated from the moment they arrived.

The learning did not end when the classes were over. Discussions continued during meals, while walking around the grounds, and late into the evening. Torah became part of every conversation and every interaction.

The peaceful setting made that possible. The Jewish Discovery Center sits on a beautiful 20-acre property with comfortable accommodations, a heated pool, inviting lounges, and a spacious dining room. Every physical need was taken care of so participants could focus completely on learning, reflection, and personal growth.

Shabbos was the highlight of the week. Inspiring davening, delicious meals, singing, and farbrengens brought everyone together and strengthened the sense of community that had developed throughout the program.

Participants left inspired by the experience.

“Learning this maamar with Rabbi Raichik first thing each morning was a highlight for me, an inspiring start to the day,” said Robert A. of Manhattan, New York.

James G. of Louisville, Kentucky, who had never studied Torah in such depth before, said the experience “helps to see the logic in how Gemara, Talmud, and Halacha are built.”
Others spoke about the atmosphere.

“It’s a beautiful location. It’s very relaxing. It’s a great atmosphere for learning,” said Paul N. of Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Barbara W. of Long Island praised the women’s program, saying, “Morah Chaya is wonderful. She leads with joy and understanding.”

For Brad S. of Olney, Maryland, the relationships were just as meaningful as the learning. “The camaraderie, that’s what I enjoyed most. You all get together, you talk, you share, and then there’s the enlightenment of the learning.”

Candice S. of Newtown, Pennsylvania, summed up the week simply: “The experience has really been very, very wonderful. I’m learning a great deal and bringing it all back home.”
Many participants returned home determined to continue building on what they had learned. Some began new chavrusa partnerships through JNet, while others are already asking when the next Torah Experience will take place.

JNet Director Rabbi Mendel Groner added, “Seeing participants connect so deeply with their heritage and with one another confirms our mission. When you provide the right environment for study, the soul awakens. We are energized by the commitment these participants have shown and look forward to expanding this program in the coming year.”

With the enthusiastic response to this year’s program, JNet is already planning future Torah Experiences as it continues its mission, rooted in the Rebbe’s vision, of bringing authentic Torah learning to Jews wherever they are.