The Latin America Kinus Hashluchim kicked off its first day with an air of excitement and anticipation as Shluchim from across South America came together in Panama City, Panama.
They are there to share ideas, network, and discuss their unique types of Shlichus, ranging from small communities to remote locations that cater to Jewish backpackers.
Hosted by Chabad of Panama, the Kinus promised to be a dynamic two-day event filled with inspiration and camaraderie.
Shluchim from all across Latin America traveled far and wide to participate in the Kinus. They came from countries such as Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela, representing diverse communities with unique challenges and opportunities.
The day began with an opening session and lunch, emceed by Rabbi Shmuel Goldberg of Panama and Rabbi Moshe Perman of Venezuela. The energy was palpable as the Shluchim eagerly engaged in discussions about their respective communities and exchanged insights on what has been working in their areas. The atmosphere was one of collaboration and mutual support as they brainstormed and networked, drawing from each other’s experiences and expertise.
“These regional Kinusim are essential to the success of Shlichus, the energy derived from Shluchim coming together and strengthening one another is one of a kind and something the Rebbe was truly passionate about, especially in a Hakhel year,” said Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, Chairman of the International Kinus, Vice-Chairman of Merkos and the one entrusted by the Rebbe with the responsibility of facilitating regional Kinusim around the globe.
One of the highlights of the day was the showcase of Shlichus ideas, moderated by Rabbi Yehuda Slonim of Cali, Colombia. The Shluchim took turns presenting their innovative projects and initiatives, ranging from educational programs to social services, all aimed at infusing new life and purpose into the communities they serve. The diversity of their approaches and the passion with which they spoke about their work was truly inspiring, reflecting the far-reaching impact of Chabad in Latin America.
Throughout the day, the Shluchim also had the opportunity to hear from senior Shluchim who shared their experiences and insights. Rabbi Eliezer Shemtov of Uruguay, Rabbi Menashe Perman of Chile, Rabbi Moshe Perman of Venezuela, Rabbi Yehoshua Rosenfeld of Bogotá, Colombia, and Rabbi Yossi Liberow of Barranquilla, Colombia, spoke about the unique directives they received from the Rebbe and how they have translated them into meaningful action in their communities.
The day concluded with a warm farbrengen where the Shluchim shared inspiration and encouragement in an informal Chassidishe atmosphere.
SO PROUD OF PANAMA AND RABBI ARON LAINE FOR THE KINNUS OF LATIN AMERICAN SHLUCHIM!!!!