Chabad Merkos 302

Long Island Teen Spearheads New Jewish Teen Safe Space At the heart of this initiative is Mya Declue, an 18-year-old freshman at Endicott College studying interior architecture.

From Protests to Pride: Jewish Youth Stand Tall at Sydney Opera House!

In a powerful moment of Jewish pride, JewQ Australia finalists gathered in front of the Sydney Opera House—just days after antisemitic protests—praying for peace and the return of the hostages. Representing 57 schools across three states, these champions, many the only Jewish students in their schools, danced to "Am Yisroel Chai" and stood tall in solidarity. Their message? “The best way to fight hate is by living as proud Jews.”

Reconnect with Your Roots

After October 7th, David Levinson in remote New Mexico felt an urgent pull to reconnect with his Jewish heritage. But diving into Torah study alone was overwhelming—until JNet's new series "Torah Unboxed" came to the rescue!

JNet is making Torah accessible to everyone, no matter where you are. "Torah Unboxed" breaks down sacred texts, helping seekers like David find their way back to their roots.

Join the digital Jewish renaissance. Discover, learn, and reconnect.
To register visit, www.jnet.org/learn

Empowered & Ready to Shine!

50 future Shluchos gathered in Crown Heights for an intense 2-day seminar at , prepping to light up the world with their mission! From deep insights to powerful connections, these women are set to make a difference.

“We left feeling empowered and ready to start our new Shlichus,” says Mrs. Chaya Mushka Baron.

In memory of fellow participant Mrs. Miriam Mintz, Shluchos worldwide are dedicating their efforts, proving that her legacy lives on.

🌍 Inspiring the Next Generation of Jewish Leaders 🌍

Former US Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, recently met with an incredible group of teens from CTeen’s Heritage Quest in Jerusalem. These teens, from 17 countries, embarked on a life-changing journey from Poland’s Holocaust sites to the vibrant streets of Israel, strengthening their Jewish identity and leadership skills.

Despite the challenges and the ongoing war, these teens stood tall, embracing their heritage with pride. Ambassador Friedman’s words of wisdom and encouragement inspired them to carry their renewed sense of Jewish pride back home, ready to lead with strength and conviction.

With 804 chapters in 63 countries, CTeen is more than just a movement; it’s a home for Jewish teens worldwide, empowering them to connect, grow, and make a difference.

Let’s celebrate these young leaders and the bright future they represent! 🌟

Jewish Pride Shines Bright at CKids Gan Israel!

Over 300 Jewish girls from six Gan Israel day camps united for an unforgettable overnight experience at CKids Gan Israel Poconos. For many, this was more than just a camp—it was a powerful moment of connection, strength, and belonging. In a world where their Jewish identity is often challenged, these young girls were reminded that they are never alone—part of a vibrant, supportive community.

Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky highlighted the impact of these experiences, saying, "The Rebbe emphasized that summer camps can have an even greater influence than traditional school settings."

As antisemitism rises, Rabbi Zalmy Loewenthal stressed, "Building Jewish pride in our children is essential for our future. Events like this are the bedrock of a strong, connected Jewish community."

Chabad To Mark 15th of Av By Sharing The Rebbe's Dating and Marriage Insights.

In honor of the 15th of Av, Shluchim worldwide are offering "The Jewish Dating Course" to young professionals. This course, created by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, offers timeless guidance from The Rebbe on navigating modern dating challenges.

💬 "The 15th day of Av was a historic day for matchmaking," says Rabbi Naftoli Shanowitz. "We're continuing that tradition with valuable Torah wisdom."

The course has already made a significant impact, reaching 2,200 young professionals in 119 cities. Lesson Two, "Your Bubby Was Right," highlights:

Dating's purpose is marriage
Values over interests
Religious commitment
Discussing serious topics early
Amy from CYP Houston shares, "I learned that shared values are key to a successful marriage."

This initiative honors Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky ע"ה and is supported by a generous donor.

👉 Get Lesson Two for free at metatchabad.com/freelesson. For more info, contact [email protected].

We are marking the 30th anniversary of The Rebbe’s passing with ambitious new expansion initiatives.

👉100 after-school programs to be opened providing crucial Jewish education to kids without access to Jewish education options.

👉 100 emissaries to be sent out to establish Jewish infrastructure in remote communities.

30 years later, we remain committed to continuing The Rebbe’s legacy by promoting his teachings and positivity to Jewish people wherever they may be found.

Photo Credits:

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our chairman, Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, the globetrotting ambassador of the Rebbe who was the iconic Chairman of the International Kinus Hashluchim in New York who played a pivotal role in revitalizing Jewish communities and growing Chabad institutions worldwide.
His journey epitomized dedication and vision, from traversing the globe to identify the needs of Jewish communities to pioneering initiatives that revitalized Jewish life. A masterful networker and skilled fundraiser, he rallied support from philanthropists and leaders worldwide, transforming dreams into reality.
His leadership at the helm of Merkos and pivotal roles in institutions such as Chabad on Call, CKids, Cteen, CYP, JLI reshaped the landscape of Jewish education and outreach. Rabbi Kotlarsky's legacy of compassion, tireless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the Rebbe's vision will continue to inspire and guide us. 🌍✨
We pray and hope to be reunited with the coming of Moshiach today!

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our chairman, Rabbi Moshe Yehuda Kotlarsky, the globetrotting ambassador of the Rebbe who was the iconic Chairman of the International Kinus Hashluchim and Vice chairman of Merkos L’inyonei Chinuch who played a pivotal role in revitalizing Jewish communities and growing Chabad institutions worldwide.

He cared dearly about the wellbeing of Shluchim’s children worldwide and always encouraged us to do more and more

Rabbi Kotlarsky's legacy of compassion, tireless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the Rebbe's vision will continue to inspire and guide us.

We pray and hope to be reunited with the coming of Moshiach today!

It is with broken hearts that we mourn the passing of Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, founder of Chabad Merkos 302, a beloved key figure in the global Jewish community and pioneer of Jewish life around the globe, passed away on Tuesday, June 4th, 2024.

As Vice Chairman of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch (the educational arm of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement), Rabbi Kotlarsky played a crucial role in the growth of the Chabad network worldwide. Entrusted by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, he oversaw the establishment of thousands of Chabad centers and guided Chabad leaders worldwide through the challenges of setting up Jewish Centers in diverse and often remote regions.

In 1968, at the behest of the Rebbe, he began traveling extensively to outlying Jewish communities, identifying needs, and planning new Chabad centers. His efforts revived Jewish infrastructure worldwide, including in the former Soviet Union, the Far East, the Caribbean and much more.

Rabbi Kotlarsky chaired the International Kinus Hashluchim, the annual convention of Chabad emissaries. This event, described as the largest sit-down dinner in New York’s history, showcases Chabad’s growth. His “roll call” of emissaries at the gala banquet highlighted the impact of over 6,000 Chabad centers worldwide.

In his role as Vice Chairman of Merkos, Rabbi Kotlarsky spearheaded numerous initiatives and institutions, including Chabad on Campus International, which operates on over 230 campuses worldwide, and the JLI - The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute , the largest provider of adult Jewish education. He also founded Merkos 302, a division led by his son Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky that provides specialized programming and infrastructure for Chabad centers, launching key programs with thousands of locations worldwide including the CTeenChabad Teen Network, Chabad Young Professionals International, CKids, Chabad on Call, MyShliach The Jewish Learning Network - JNet and networks and more.

Rabbi Kotlarsky's impact was not limited to his formal roles. Even as he dealt with big-picture challenges and relationships with global leaders, he was a personal friend and mentor to thousands around the globe. Known for his readiness to assist anyone in need, at all hours of the night and day, he provided emergency financial and medical assistance to countless individuals from all walks of life.

Even as he faced severe health challenges in recent years, Rabbi Kotlarsky continued his work undeterred. At the Shluchim Conference of 2021, he delivered a powerful speech pledging to undertake numerous transformative initiatives to impact Jewish life globally. In the past few years, he oversaw the establishment of hundreds of new Chabad centers, Jewish libraries, mikvahs, Jewish Teen Centers, New Hebrew schools, and more

Rabbi Kotlarsky’s dedication extended to the very end. Even from his hospital bed, he advanced crucial programs and assisted those in need. His resilience and unwavering commitment to the Rebbe's vision inspired all who knew him.

Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky leaves behind a legacy of unwavering dedication, leadership, and profound impact on Jewish communities worldwide. His tireless work has touched countless lives and inspired generations. As we mourn his passing, we commit to continuing his work, ensuring that his spirit of leadership and compassion endures.

Inspired by The Rebbe’s call for every Jew to be a Shliach, Chabad Young Professionals’ “Ambassadors of Freedom” have taken on a new mission: distributing Shmurah Matzah to Jews in their communities. 🌟

Meet Eric Stevelman, a systems engineer from Houston, who joined this initiative to help Jews reconnect with their heritage. “Outreach is super important, especially now,” Eric shares. With the dedication of 55 young professionals like Eric, over 800 matzahs were delivered this Pesach! ✨

“In a post-October 7th world, every Jew is a representative of our people,” says Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky. And the efforts of our ambassadors are a testament to this spirit. 💪

Stay tuned for our next initiative: Mezuzah distribution! Join us and be a part of this impactful movement. DM us to get involved! 🌍❤️

🌟 Community in Every Corner! 🌍 This week, 70 young Shluchim from across Europe gathered in Paris to celebrate their dedication to Torah study and foster lifelong friendships. From thrilling adventures at NIKITO to soulful evenings along the Seine, every moment was a step closer in our journey of unity and connection. Together, we’re not just learning—we’re growing a global community bound by heritage and heart. 📚💞 ”

Check out the full story here!👇👇

https://news.merkos302.com/post/european-yaldei-hashluchim-enjoy-bustling-3-day-myshliach-retreat-in-paris

In a step towards aiding Chabad Shluchim around the world, a new Chasidic Mastery Course has opened up new doors for so many.

With renowned Chasidic teachers giving clarity and insight on these in-depth discussions, following an accommodating schedule that factors in the day to day life of a Rabbi, the “Kollel” is advancing knowledge and understanding of Chasidic Philosophy around the world.
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Overnight Camp Ushers in New Era of Immersive Jewish Experiences

🏖️As the sandy shores of Lake Balaton come to life with traditional Jewish songs, a whole new generation of leaders are experiencing a summer of a lifetime!
🧗‍♂️Through innovative learning materials and a wide array of activities, the CKids Gan Israel overnight camp creates a space where Jewish pride thrives!
🏡Not only on the country lakeside, but even in their homes, these young leaders spread the joy of Judaism with everyone around them.

Way to go Eli!

Folsom 5th grader is regional jewish knowledge contest champion - Folsom Times In an impressive display of knowledge and poise, local 5th grader Eli Muallem has emerged victorious in the Folsom regional championships of the JewQ

Thousands of young Shluchim, united together for a weekend of inspiration and fun. In over 100 locations around the world, more than 1,700 children experienced the empowering feeling of being part of a global mission!

Thousands of voices, raised together in prayer for their families, communities and the Jewish People, stormed the heavens at the Rebbe’s Ohel. Such a powerful show of unity surely broke through all barriers! 🙏💪.

One photo, the entire world 🌎
Thousands of Shluchos representing Jewish communities in over 100 countries worldwide gather for the annual conference with prayers for peace in the holy land and the entire world.
Photo credit:

Anti-semitism, discrimination and peer pressure are some of the things so prevalent in our children’s lives, as they try to stand as proud Jews in public.
Added to the growing list of locations, CGI Poconos has flourished and blossomed as a space where Jewish children can connect to fellow kids that face similar situations to them.
As its sister locations in Florida, Wisconsin, Denmark, and Hungry, the children who come to this overnight camp leave with a newfound sense of pride, ready to face any challenges back home.

Anti-semitism, discrimination and peer pressure are some of the things so prevalent in our children's lives, as they try to stand as proud Jews in public.
Added to the growing list of locations, CGI Poconos has flourished and blossomed as a space where Jewish children can connect to fellow kids that face similar situations to them.
As its sister locations in Florida, Wisconsin, Denmark, and Hungry, the children who come to this overnight camp leave with a newfound sense of pride, ready to face any challenges back home.

Growing up in Waukesha, WI, and attending a yeshiva in Israel for a couple years, Matt Ford found himself living in Austin, the founder of a successful tech company.

Soon after, Ford met Rabbi Mendy Levertov, the director of Chabad Young Jewish Professionals of Austin, and a few years later, he joined Levertov on the CYP Shabbaton.

At the time, the thought of spending an entire Shabbos disconnected from technology, seemed like a far-fetched idea, but after an incredible shabbos, spent with hundreds of other Jewish young professionals, the idea had its roots firmly planted in his brain.

Enveloped in the ascendant environment of hundreds of like-minded young adults coming to spend Shabbat together and experience the richness of community, Torah and connection, he developed a new sense of what Shabbat could be.

The following Sunday, CYP rabbis and participants made the most important stop of their trip: to the Ohel in Queens, the resting place of the Rebbe.

There, they reflected on all they had experienced at the Shabbaton and had a personal moment to write a note and pray for things affecting their lives and the Jewish people at large. After spending that incredible shabbos without his phone, Matt has continued on with his commitment ever since.

You can fight darkness with your light.
Or you can light up others to join in the battle, setting off a chain reaction.
The CTeen Transform Chanukah initiative not only spread light. It ignited so many young teens to become a beacon in their own lives! 🔥 💪🔥

Were you there to witness an empowering and fun-filled havdala concert, that captured the spirits of over 600 young jewish professionals? 🎤 🔥