Thousands of Jewish women leaders attended the International Conference of Chabad-Lubavitch Women Emissaries at Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters on Friday and took their iconic group photo in Crown Heights.
At a time when many Jews may feel isolated, the annual image from the world's largest gathering of Jewish women leaders sends a message of strength and reassurance, inspiring Jews worldwide to stand prouder, unfazed and recommitted to their identity and faith, officials said. There were about 4,500 shluchos, or female Chabad-Lubavitch emissaries, representing 111 countries and over 6,000 communities in Brooklyn.
"This image represents the story of the Jewish people and the secret to our resilience," said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, director of the International Conference of Shluchos and Chabad's Global Networks. "Each woman here leads her community through the ups and downs. Drawing strength and inspiration from our timeless teachings, they are the first responders to Jewish life across the globe, and this picture is a testament that despite all odds, the Jewish people are stronger than ever before."
Shluchos serve as educators, counselors, community organizers and spiritual leaders. From CTeen and Campus to Chabad Young Professionals and seniors, they run Hebrew schools and camps, organize holiday celebrations, visit the sick, counsel families in crisis, they coordinate volunteer efforts and emergency response to disasters, and provide a welcoming home for everyone who walks through their doors.
For many shluchos, the annual gathering provides a rare opportunity to connect with peers who understand the unique demands of their work, officials said.
