New site, New Year

Two Lubavitch bochurim spent this past summer knocking on doors. Like many their age, they dedicated their vacation time to what is known as the Chabad Peace Corps – visiting Jewish people in out-of-the-way and rural locations around the world.

The work can get tedious and at times, disappointing – with the average reception not as warm as they’d hoped. Some Jewish Communities won’t share the list of local Jews, others will send them to intermarried couples to wriggle their way around the complex issues of Jewish continuity.

But these two bochurim enjoyed major success in their house calls. The formula: after ringing the bell, and being asked suspiciously “who’s there?” they answered, “We’re here for change.”

Not one door remained closed.

This might just be a classic example of how Lubavitchers can skew popular culture, or in this case the general notion of the presidential election, for their own mission. It’s as if they have their own vocabulary and it was the Lubavitcher Rebbe who taught us to utilize modern culture and technology for the good.

In “Lubavitch speak” we have our own definitions. “Moscow” means Rabbi Berel Lazar and his conglomerate. The Hebrew word for weapons, “Neshek” means “Shabbos candles.” And “bochurim” are not only Yeshiva students but also activists in their own right.

So welcome to the Lubavitch vocabulary, and community – COLlive.com – a place like no other.

Following our very popular Hebrew sister site col.org.il, we will focus on community and unity. We will bring you the news and views in an exciting, constant and entertaining fashion. We will bring both the positive and maybe not so positive, but we always vouch to be live, stir discussion and spark inspiration.

Sections like Mazal Tov listings and community events will strengthen the connection and communication in the Lubavitch community. And the easy to navigate video player, with music clips to Torah classes, will keep you occupied and uplifted.

Change is here. Can you feel it?