At a time when communities across the nation are searching for unity, purpose, and moral clarity, an extraordinary event in Mineola delivered a powerful and uplifting response.
Chabad of Mineola hosted “11 on 11: Living Lessons from the Rebbe,” a dynamic and fast-paced program that brought together eleven Chabad rabbis from across Long Island. Each presented a brief yet impactful teaching rooted in the timeless vision of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.
The program drew community leaders, residents, and public officials for a morning that blended inspiration, music, and meaningful dialogue — all centered on one powerful idea:
Every individual has the power to bring light into the world.
A highlight of the event was the participation of North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jen DeSena, who presented a special proclamation in honor of Education and Sharing Day.
In her remarks, Supervisor DeSena emphasized the critical importance of education that shapes not only knowledge, but character — highlighting compassion, responsibility, and moral leadership as essential values for the next generation. Her presence underscored the growing recognition that the Rebbe’s message extends far beyond religious life and into the broader civic and educational landscape.
The heart of the program featured eleven rabbis representing communities across Long Island:
Rabbi Tuvia Teldon – Chabad of Long Island
Rabbi Mendel Gurkov – Chabad of Rockville Centre
Rabbi Mendy Brownstein – Chabad of Jericho
Rabbi Shloime Naparstek – Chabad of Long Beach
Rabbi Shimon Kramer – Chabad of Merrick-Bellmore
Rabbi Yossi Lieberman – Chabad of West Hempstead
Rabbi Mendy Heber – Chabad of Brookville
Rabbi Shmuel Lipshitz – Chabad of Oyster Bay Town
Rabbi Yakov Yosef Raskin – Chabad of Huntington Village
Rabbi Levi Sudak – Chabad of Greater Mineola
Rabbi Anchelle Perl – Chabad of Mineola
Each rabbi delivered a concise three-minute teaching, offering practical insights for modern life. Among the key themes:
Personal responsibility — leadership begins with action
The power of kindness — one small deed can impact countless lives
Unity with respect — differences need not divide
Purpose in every moment — even small actions carry deep meaning
Faith in action — courage and conviction in everyday life
Light over darkness — positivity has the power to transform
Together, the speakers created a powerful collective message of hope, resilience, and responsibility.
A Message for Our Times
The structure of the program — eleven speakers, each just three minutes long — reflected the deeper symbolism of the number eleven: going beyond what is expected. The program was called “11 on 11” not only because it featured eleven rabbis sharing eleven powerful lessons, but also in honor of Yud Alef Nissan — the 11th of Nissan, the birthday of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.
That idea captured the essence of the Rebbe’s vision:
Do more. Care more. Give more. Be more.
In a world often overwhelmed by negativity and division, the program offered a refreshing and actionable message — that meaningful change begins with individuals willing to step forward.
Inspiration That Leads to Action
In closing, Rabbi Anchelle Perl emphasized that inspiration alone is not enough.
“The Rebbe didn’t ask us to admire good ideas,” he said.
“He asked us to live them. One act of goodness. One moment of light. That’s how the world changes.”
Attendees left not only inspired, but empowered — with a renewed sense that each person has a role to play in shaping a better future.
