Chabad Conference Mulls Techniques in Combating Assimilation

SYDNEY, Australia [CHI] — More than sixty Chabad Rabbis and Rebbetzins from across New South Wales gathered in Sydney last week for a day-long conference.

The annual conference, held this year on Thursday February 21 at Chabad Double Bay and the Hakoah Club, was an opportunity for the local Chabad spiritual leadership to share ideas and inspiration.

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Rabbi Dovid Masinter, from Johannesburg South Africa, was scholar in residence at the conference, and reflected on the South African Jewish experience and what Sydney Jewry can learn from it. Particular emphasis was placed on welcoming new South African immigrants into the community and making them feel at home.

“The Lubavitcher Rebbe was very optimistic about South Africa’s future”, said Rabbi Masinter, “And his predictions on so many things were uncannily accurate. So although we may be going through a rough patch at the moment, we are certain that South Africa will transform into a prosperous and safe nation as per the Rebbe’s assurances. The Chabad leadership in South Africa have therefore been discouraging emigration”

Rabbi Masinter added that although he discourages it, “Because emigration is a fact, and many South African Jews are coming to Sydney, they have to be welcomed with open arms and provided the spiritual nourishment they need in their new country.”

A main focus of the conference was techniques in combating assimilation, with addresses by prominent Chabad Rabbis including Rabbi Michoel Chriqui from the Sephardi Synagogue, Rabbinical Council of NSW President Rabbi Mendel Kastel and NSW Chabad Head Rabbi Pinchus Feldman OAM.

“The conference was a resounding success”, said Rabbi Feldman, “A number of innovative new ideas were tabled and resolutions made to enhance Jewish awareness and involvement in our community.”