Join WUPJ in Jerusalem to shape the future of Progressive Judaism.
Join us to Celebrate our first 100 Years, Rededicate Beit Shmuel and Connect with Progressive Jewish Leaders from all over the World
October 22–25, 2025 | Beit Shmuel, Jerusalem
"As we begin the celebration of the first 100 years of the World Union for Progressive Judaism—and over 50 years of presence in Israel—we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Medinat Israel during Connections 25. Join us for the re-inauguration of Beit Shmuel, the newly envisioned Global Hub of Progressive Judaism in Jerusalem."
Rabbi Sergio Bergman,
WUPJ President.
4 Days In the heart of Jerusalem
Progressive Jews from 30+ countries coming together
20+ Sessions & Working Groups
Tefilot at the Egalitarian Kotel & overlooking the Old City
Opening Ceremony with inspiring speakers
Shabbat in Jerusalem & multilingual Torah study
Add-on Programs
What's Connections?
It's a global gathering for professional and lay leaders who understand that leadership isn’t just about showing up — it’s about showing up ready to work for the future of Progressive Judaism.
Who is Connections for?
For professional and lay leaders actively involved in the Progressive Jewish World, and committed to collaboration, strategic thinking, and strengthening our movement’s presence in Israel and around the world.
I loved how engaging all of these activities were. There was never a point where I was bored or uninterested. We got to hear from some really inspiring and influential MK's, as well as, individuals living in Israeli society. The service at the Western wall was also very beautiful and well-planned.
There will be prayer.
There will be music.
There will be connection.
But above all, there will be purpose.
Wednesday, 22 October / 30 Tishrei
Registration opens at 14:00.
Workshops start at 15:00.
Tikkun Atzmi – Our Personal Leadership Development
We mark the complete re-opening of Beit Shmuel on its 50th year with inspiring workshops and a powerful Opening Ceremony marking the first time our global community meets in-person since October 7. We re-dedicate the Hirsch Theater will members of the Hirsch family, honor donors to the Centennial Campaign and feature a performance by the award-winning Israel Story, one of the most heard podcasts coming out of Israel, entitled Jerusalem of Gold / Jerusalem of Iron.
Thursday, 23 October / 1 Cheshvan
Tikkun Kehilati – Best Practices and Challenges in our Communities
A day of inspiration and ideas: A WUPJ delegation will join the Women of the Walls Rosh Chodesh prayer followed by a moving adult b/bar/bat mitzvah ceremony at Beit Shmuel. We will hear TED-style talks from visionary leaders, and dynamic sessions that address the issues we all face. The night ends with an “open mike” gathering - creativity, music, and community.
Friday, 24 October / 2 Cheshvan
Tikkun Ami - Working Together for the Future of Global Progressive Judaism
We will pray as a global movement at the Egalitarian Kotel. At Beit Shmuel, Rabbi Sergio Bergman will deliver the conference’s keynote speech, and then we will work in roundtables led by the WUPJ leadership to shape the agenda of our organization. Welcome Shabbat together in song, prayer, and a festive communal dinner.
Shabbat, 25 October / 3 Cheshvan
Tikkun Olam – Torah, Spirit and Community
Shabbat Shacharit in the Blaustein Hall overlooking the Old City including the WUPJ Torah Exchange and Torah study. Dive into study and affinity groups, and close with Havdalah under the Jerusalem sky — concluding our gathering in unity, spirit, and commitment to justice. After, we will join the Jerusalem demonstrations for the support of the hostage families.
The program ends with Havdalah around 19:30.
What you will experience?
Add-on Events
This pre-Connections gathering creates a platform for Progressive rabbis and cantors to foster collaboration, engage in thoughtful dialogue, and reinforce regional and professional networks.
Netzer/Tamar Veida
The GLF is a program for Progressive Jewish leaders to strengthen their skills, connect globally, and make a local impact. It includes virtual workshops, mentoring, and immersive sessions around the Connections Conference.
Netzer Veida and Tamar Veida are the international leadership assemblies for the global movements - the special opportunity to gather nominated leaders, representing each snif across the world to work together on the future of their movement, including some shared sessions and opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
