Shluchim in Medical Shlichus to Convene in Houston for Second Annual Kinus

Shluchim involved in hospital and medical-related shlichus are on the front lines of some of the most sensitive moments in Jewish life. The upcoming Chabad on Call Kinus will bring together shluchim who work in this growing field, as well as those looking to expand their shlichus into hospital and medical outreach, to learn from one another and strengthen their impact.

For the second consecutive year, the Kinus will be held on location, this time hosted by Aishel House, at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, led by Rabbi Lazer and Rochel Lazaroff, following last year’s gathering in Florida in partnership with Healing Hearts, which drew approximately 50 participants involved in hospital shlichus and chaplaincy work.

“The shluchim doing this work carry tremendous responsibility. A family in crisis needs someone who can hold their hand while also answering difficult halachic questions,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “The Kinus is where these shluchim get to feel supported themselves, exchanging ideas and drawing inspiration from peers and experts in the field,

Sessions will focus on halacha, building relationships with medical staff, hospice and end-of-life care, community engagement, and balancing the role of serving as both shliach and chaplain. Whether a shliach has years of hospital experience or is just beginning to explore this area, the program is designed to offer practical value.

One of the featured sessions, titled “When Questions Can’t Wait,” will be led by Rabbi Yosef Shusterman, a renowned posek and shliach. The halacha intensive will explore real hospital scenarios involving Shabbos, ICU situations, and urgent medical decisions, offering practical clarity through cases faced in medical settings.

Participants will also have the opportunity to experience the Aishel House model firsthand, including its hospitality suites, volunteer engagement, and patient support infrastructure. And how they can bring that back home to their medical shlichus.

“Last year’s Kinus brought tremendous energy to this growing field of shlichus,” said Mrs. Chani Goldberg, Director of Chabad on Call at Merkos 302. “Shluchim left with practical tools, new connections, and a clearer sense of how to serve patients, families, and medical communities.”

“The networking last year was the most valuable part for me,” said Rabbi Mendy Begun of LA Jewish Care and The Wisdom Circle. “Being together with others involved in this unique and sensitive work was energizing. I came away with practical ideas from other shluchim, small things I was able to adapt in my own hospital work. I’m looking forward to coming back this year.”