The 2024 European Union for Progressive Judaism (EUPJ) Shabbaton in Vienna brought together over 30 participants from 10 countries — Italy, Spain, France, Hungary, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Israel, Austria and the UK.

With many young adults taking part, the weekend was inspiring, drawing on the wisdom of the past while looking to the future.

Leaders from our British Progressive community playing key roles in the event included EUPJ Chair Rabbi Lea Mühlstein, EUPJ President Leslie Bergman and EUPJ Honorary Life President Miriam Kramer. They were joined for the conference by Progressive Judaism Co-Lead Rabbi Charley Baginsky.

Rabbi Charley said: “Progressive Judaism in the UK has long been and continues to be an essential part of the EUPJ. It was both a joy and an inspiration to be with colleagues in Vienna and think together about how we can lead and collaborate together to ensure the voice of Progressive Judaism grows and thrives across Europe.”

Rabbi Lea – Senior Rabbi at The Ark Synagogue – added: “This Shabbaton showcased the vibrancy and diversity of European Progressive Judaism – successfully fostering cross-border connections and shared learning among our communities.

“The diverse group, young and old, exemplified the movement’s commitment to building on its rich history while embracing the potential of the next generation. Everyone departed with renewed energy, ideas and commitments to strengthening their communities and forging a brighter, united future.”

You can read a day-by-day report below.

Friday:

The Shabbaton began on Friday afternoon with a welcome by Rabbi Lea (pictured right), as Chair of the EUPJ, and Dr Eric Frey, Chair of host community Or Chadasch.

The session featured discussions exploring best practices for nurturing sustainable congregations, engaging the next generation of leaders, and strengthening visibility and representation for Progressive Jewish communities across Europe.

Saturday:

Shabbat morning included the welcoming of a new Torah scroll for Or Chadasch. The scroll was previously owned by Leo Hepner z’l at London’s West Central Synagogue.

In the afternoon, participants delved into Vienna’s rich Jewish history during a walking tour of the city’s 1st and 2nd districts (pictured left). This experience highlighted Vienna’s Jewish heritage and resilience, offering insights into the community’s past and present as a reminder of the central place Viennese Jews played in literature, the arts, psychiatry and Zionism.

The day ended with Havdalah and a keynote session titled ‘If not now, when’ that sparked lively breakout discussions and reflections on the shared challenges and opportunities facing Israel and the Diaspora. The participants’ youthful energy and diverse perspectives contributed significantly to some forward-looking conversations.

Sunday:

The final day of the Shabbaton offered parallel sessions to help participants understand the need for a strong Progressive representation at the upcoming World Zionist Congress. The focus was on future goals and collaborative strategies for advancing Progressive Judaism in Europe and beyond.