Local rabbi to speak at international conference

Moshe Bryski Rabbi Moshe Bryski, executive director of Chabad of the Conejo, will deliver the keynote address at the International Conference of Shluchim, the largest single annual gathering of Jewish leadership in the world.

About 4,000 rabbinical and lay leaders from 73 countries and all across the United States will gather for lectures and workshops on Nov. 19 through 23 in New York City.

Shluchim (emissaries) is another name for the rabbis of Chabad who serve their communities under the precepts of the late Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Schneerson. Today there are more than 3,300 Chabad centers world wide, offering Jewish educational and social services.

Bryski's talk will focus on the theme of global unity and solidarity.

"There is so much fragmentation in the world today," said Bryski. "From the economic situation to international tensions, there is fear and disillusionment looming in people's hearts. Now, more than ever, people are looking to bond, to connect, to unify around principles of absolute goodness and truth without any agendas, political or otherwise. I believe that all of the leaders in the room that night, the emissaries who have been inspired by the teachings and directives of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, have that unique message to share with the world."

The public can view the session live on the Internet beginning at 4:30 p.m. Sun., Nov. 23 on www.Chabad.org or at www .chabadofconejo.com.

Bryski began his rabbinical career 25 years ago, initially working out of a storefront in Westlake Village. He brought additional rabbis and personnel on board, and the organization expanded to six centers under his leadership in Agoura Hills, Oak Park, Westlake Village, Calabasas, Thousand Oaks and Newbury Park.

Among the programs offered at the centers are synagogues, Hebrew schools, youth programs, summer camps, holiday festivals, senior outreach, hospital visitation and the Friendship Circle program for children with special needs.

Chabad of the Conejo also offers the Conejo Jewish Academy, an adult education institute providing classes, lectures, study groups and symposiums.

Efforts are underway for Chabad of the Conejo to build its central headquarters and expansive community campus in Agoura Hills.