More than 750 participants have joined together this weekend in Minsk for the first Limmud FSU conference in the Belarus capital. The event is in partnership with the government of Belarus, the Belarus Jewish community and the Israeli Embassy of Belarus. While local government officials often attend, and sometimes present at Limmud FSU events, these types of partnerships are rare.

Speaking with eJP prior to the event, Limmud FSU’s founder Chaim Chesler said, “This event – and the government’s support – underscores the strength of contemporary Jewish life in Belarus.” Added Sandra Cahn, Limmud FSU’s co-founder, “We are witnessing a new era of Belarus Jews that have become completely independent and have defined the framework of Jewish life on their own, and for themselves. The Belarus Jewish community is proud and here to stay.”

Limmud FSU has held two previous conferences in Belarus, both in Vitebsk, Marc Chagall’s hometown.