West Coast Shluchim Learn

Shluchim on the West Coast were treated to a soul-refreshing experience sponsored by Chabad of California.

Forty Shluchim from California and Nevada got together at the Chabad’s Running Springs campus with Rabbi Manis Friedman for twenty four hours of learning and conversation.

The topics Rabbi Friedman covered ranged from the very personal to the deeply mystical.

In his short introduction, Rabbi Friedman encouraged the group to try finding new appreciation for the practical relevance of the chassidus we all learn. And that remained the theme as the Shluchim enjoyed new perspectives and greater depth on a wide range of topics.

As one California shliach put it, “It was a privilege to be able to come together with chaveirim and spend quality personal time with a mashpia like Reb Manis – no pressure, no red tape, no nothing; just mind-opening learning and frank and honest discussions.”

There were many highlights in the short program. To some the highlight was the morning shiur in which Rabbi Friedman explained major concepts in chassidus with stark clarity.

To others the high point was the farbrengen that went well into the early hours of the morning. And to some it was the thoughtful chassidishkeit Rabbi Friedman brought to matters of family relationships, chinuch and personal avodah.

The Shluchim enjoyed some personal reflections from Rabbi Friedman’s experience translating for the Rebbe’s televised farbrengens, rigorous discussions on subjects like moshiach and even a spontaneous kabalistic explanation of being on a mountain top.

All in all, a deeply meaningful time was had by all and plans are already underway for similar programs in the near future.