Merkos women, an Australian Chabad women’s learning institute based in Melbourne, recently held its Winter Warmers program 5779/2019 which was an enjoyable and enriching opportunity for the girls to partake in.
Intended for seminary, post-seminary and university students, it was an uplifting experience which provided new insights, inspirational talks and farbrengens and expanded the girls’ knowledge in a welcoming, inclusive and comfortable environment.
The program explored Chasidus, Halacha and stories throughout Jewish history, plus a component of self-development, which were all given over in a practical and relevant way. There were a variety of teachers with vast knowledge, whom the girls felt comfortable to ask many questions to and engage in discussion with. The overall learning related well to the week’s parasha about the para aduma, the red heifer. It was an interesting topic where the girls learned about different types of mitzvot, the strength of merit and the power of teshuva in changing one’s life and creating a new journey for a person. There was also a visit to a Mikvah for some out of the classroom learning.
The girls were surprised by the luxury of the accommodation, even though the living is in a ‘dorm style’, the rooms are large and easily fit three beds, there are multiple bathrooms in the house and loads of space to chill out. In free time, the house has many books to read, or one can simply chat with friends during break time or even go out shopping!
The girls appreciated the delicious daily fresh cooked meals every day and enjoyed the challah bake on Friday in honour of Shabbos. The Shabbos experience was beautiful and meaningful and ended with a heartfelt seder nigunim and stories. The program concluded with an exciting concert by the very talented singer and guitarist Zahava Pinson.
In one of the participants, Amanda Pollak’s own words, “I ended up at Merkos because I was open to trying new experiences and learning. The week in Melbourne (out of Sydney and out of my comfort zone) gave me the ability to reflect on the person I am and where I want to be in the future. I feel that the experience has given me a new appreciation for my Judaism, a better understanding of Jewish history, the power of mitzvot and prayer. I found every class enjoyable and I have met some lovely people along the way.
“There is no pressure to become more religious and there is no right or wrong question. On the program, I listened to some inspirational stories from people in the community, did some singing and had a wonderful Shabbat. If you are looking for an opportunity to learn, grow, laugh and meet some new people then Merkos is definitely worth a try!”
