Chabad rabbis unite in Bondi with message of hope
Rabbis convene in Bondi amid grief and resolve after terror attack.
Chabad Rabbis from across Australia and New Zealand gathered at Chabad of Bondi on Monday and Tuesday this week for a regional conference shaped by grief, reflection and renewed determination, just two months after the Bondi Beach Chanukah terror attack that claimed 15 lives, including Chabad emissaries Rabbi Eli Schlanger and Rabbi Yaakov Levitan.
Rabbi Schlanger was on the organising committee of the conference before his untimely passing.
In light of the tragedy, the conference was held under the theme “From Pain to Purpose” and focused on how Jewish leadership responds in moments of profound loss.
Rather than retreating inward, participants explored how communities can be strengthened and inspired in the face of trauma.
Over two intensive days, the Chabad Rabbis took part in workshops and roundtable discussions on a wide range of topics including pastoral care, youth engagement and sustaining Jewish communal life during challenging times. One of the most moving moments came during a walk to Bondi Beach, where participants gathered at the site of the attack to reflect and offer prayers together.
Chabad NSW head Rabbi Pinchus Feldman said the conference reflected the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s teachings.
“The Rebbe taught that the response to tragedy is not despair, but an increase in light,” he said. “Our responsibility is to turn pain into purpose by strengthening Jewish life and reaching others with renewed commitment.”
The conference concluded with a shared sense of resolve. Participants are returning to their communities inspired to deepen their work, confident that even after profound loss, Jewish life can emerge stronger, more connected and filled with hope.