7,000 Jewish teens from 60 countries filled Times Square on Motzei Shabbos, singing, dancing, and declaring their Jewish pride in the most public square on earth. After a year of challenges, they didn’t gather to explain who they are. They came to live it—out loud and together. They came from across the globe—some from communities shaken by war, others from countries grappling with rising antisemitism, and still others from regions recovering from natural disasters like wildfires and hurricanes. Together, they came to live their Judaism—proudly, unapologetically, and in full view of the world. “Shavuah Tov, CTeen!” The words rang out from the stage, declared by Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Chairman of CTeen International, cutting through the neon glow and weekend crowds.

At the Thursday night Vort in Lakewood of HaChosson Shmuel Lefkowitz (Son of HzRav Shaya) to HaKallah Leahla Olshin (daughter of HaRav Isser Zalman). The Chosson is an Enikle of HaRav Elya brudny, and the Kallah is an Einikle of HaRav Yeruchim Olshin and YBLC’T HaRav Elya Meir Sorotzkin ZT’L. VIDEO & PHOTOS VIA HOLY SHOTS

Photos taken by at the Wednesday night vort of Habochur Eliezer Dworetsky to Hakallah Esti Kushner. Photos by Holy Shots for YWN