By Zelig Katzman
For the average child in a Lubavitcher Yeshiva, the month of Kislev is magical. From Rosh Chodesh Kislev through Chanukah, it is a period characterized by activities and celebration, from marking the Rebbe’s anniversary with a classwide mock wedding to a special Yud Tes Kislev assembly in the main ballroom of the school they attend. The festive mood is uplifting and infectious, and the meaning of these days is inculcated within them in myriad ways.
But what of the children on the frontlines of the Rebbe’s army, often tucked away in the most remote corners of the earth? How are they to mark these special days, let alone absorb their lessons? Often attending non-Lubavitch schools and hundreds of miles from the closest Shliach, how can the potent stories and messages of these days reach and touch them as well?
Enter Chassidus Club from MyShliach at Merkos 302, a weekly online program dedicated to enhancing the Chassidishe Chinuch of thousands of young Shluchim worldwide. Held on Zoom every Sunday, it seeks to unite thousands of young Shluchim in learning about their rich Lubavitch heritage. With participants from New Zealand to Argentina, it is a vehicle for providing fundamental Chassidishe knowledge in an exciting and engaging way. Far more than an exercise in memorizing mere facts and dates, the spirit of Chassidus and Hiskashrus is lovingly imparted by experienced teachers. During the month of Kislev and throughout the year, it keeps the young children “in the loop” and helps them make these days meaningful, exciting and relevant.
In addition to learning the day’s Hayom Yom, a Chassidishe vort on the Parsha, and about the upcoming Chassidishe yomim tovim, the children play fun games together and develop social bonds with their fellow Shluchim. For many young Shluchim and Shluchos, it is a rare opportunity to connect with peers of the same background and values. The frequent video presentations, art projects, and workshops add yet another reason to look forward to these weekly classes.
The unique combination of education, fun, and friendship is the highlight of the week for so many “I loved the magic show, especially when I got called up for the magic trick,” said Chaya Mushka Mochkin from Little Rock, Arkansas. “I learn so much from Chassidus Club and the slideshows are fantastic.”
Now in its third year, Chassidus Club initially began during the Covid-19 pandemic. It was an effort to help the children channel their newfound free time into something constructive and meaningful. Always seeking to improve, the program has evolved and perfected with an innovative curriculum and more experienced teachers.
The feedback from parents has been remarkably positive as well. “My son is very happy and is loving Chassidus Club. This past week he created a Kahoot game about Yud Daled Kislev and his teacher let him play it with his class. He was so excited about that!” shared Mrs. Chani Nemes, Shlucha in Metairie, Lousiana.
“The young Shluchim on the front lines are the essence of the Shlichus,” said Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, Vice-Chairman of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch, “It is our utmost priority to ensure that they have the sense of Chassidishe warmth and community that will enable them to fulfill their critical mission with joy.”
To find out more information about or sign up for the MyShliach Chassidus Club, visit MyShliach.com/cclub
Click here to message Merkos 302 on Whatsapp for any questions, comments or sponsorship opportunities.
