Photos: Jewish Leaders Draw Strength and Inspiration at the Rebbe’s Ohel

Day Three of the International Conference of Chabad Emissaries began with a heartfelt visit to the Ohel, the spiritual climax of the largest Jewish conference in the world.

Representing Jewish communities in 110 countries across the globe, the shluchim gathered at the most visited Jewish religious site outside of Israel to pray for themselves, their families, and their communities back home.

“The shluchim are carrying the weight of the Jewish people. From facing terrorism, war-torn countries and natural disasters to everyday human struggles, they absorb it all,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Director of the International Conference of Chabad Emissaries. “But here, at the Rebbe’s resting place, they draw the strength they need to keep going, to return home and be the ones who uplift, who rebuild, and give hope to millions of Jews across the globe.”

For Rabbi Levi Lapidus, who runs the young professionals program at Chabad Intown in Atlanta, a visit to the Rebbe’s Ohel is a familiar trip. During the Kinus, it feels different. “I come to the Ohel throughout the year, but at the Kinus I’m standing there alongside thousands of shluchim from around the world,” he said. “We all come together to receive, so we can go home and give back, and i can increase my efforts to be there for every young Jewish professional in Atlanta.” 

The Pan Haklali, the collective petition, was read by Rabbi Ezra Binyomin Schochet, Rosh Yeshivah of Yehivas Ohr Elchonon in Los Angeles, on behalf of all Shluchim and Jewish communities worldwide, at the Rebbe’s resting place. The atmosphere was deeply moving and reflected their dedication to their communities and the Rebbe’s vision.

Photo Credit: Itzik Belenitzki – Kinus.com