Exhilarating Hakhel Farbengen for the Mechanchim Family
by Malky Weinstock
In honor of Yud Shevat, over 100 mechanchim came together in camaraderie to re-energize their passion for chinuch with chassidish vibrancy, in the midst of the long winter. This farbrengen, among other conventions throughout the year, was arranged by the Lubavitch chinuch organization Igud Hamelamdim.
With this year being a Hakhel year, many more mechanchim visited Crown Heights for Yud Shvat, and the event was prepared accordingly. The Mechanchim gathered around festive tables in unity with Hakhel spirit.
The evening was inspired by guest speaker and veteran Mechanech Rabbi Mendel Shapiro, beloved Mashpia in Los Angeles, CA.
Rabbi Shapiro enthralled the crowd with Chinuch anecdotes focusing on the Rebbe’s treasured secret for successful Chinuch. He shared many stories showcasing the importance of loving one’s students, which they will reciprocate in-turn. He spoke about how the Rebbe exemplified this trait in his love for every single Jew, no matter their status or connection to Yiddishkeit.
The Mechanchim were enamored by Rabbi Shapiro’s warmth and practical advice. Heartfelt Nigunnim – both slow dveykus and fast-paced simcha – was musical accompaniment, added an extra layer of warmth to the emotionally-charged evening. As many of the Mechanchim expressed, it was a farbrengen like they never had before, and how these farbrengens keep their hearts aflame for teaching their students, throughout the year.
Director of Igud Hamelamdim, Rabbi Avrohom Bluming, says that the feedback he gets from melamdim after these farbrengens is telling of its significance.
“Though we host extensive courses and seminars throughout the year on the techniques of teaching, nothing compares to the impact of a farbrengen. That’s where the melamdim focus on their identity and mission as a chassidishe melamed. Every mechanchim farbrengen is set royally for them, because we believe no effort should be spared for our children’s leaders. They sit together with fellow Lubavitcher melamdim, to hear and discuss what chassidishe chinuch is meant to be.”
As Rabbi Dovid Zirkind, Mechanech in Hamesivta put it: “A Shliach attends all Shluchim gatherings, a computerist comes to computerist conventions. As a mechanech, I feel a sense of belonging, here’s where I belong” .
The Mechanchim left the event, deeply inspired and enthused.
Help us support our Mechanchim by partnering with Igud Hamelamdim. Visit
igudhamelamdim.org/donate to be a part of this important endeavor.
