MyShliach at Merkos 302 has launched the MyShliach Story Hour, an engaging new audio series that infuses children's daily routines with the warmth of Chassidishe tales. Available on all major podcast platforms, the 20-minute episodes—released multiple times a week—deliver inspiring stories of Chassidim to young audiences worldwide.
Stories of our forefathers, Tzadikim throughout the generations, and everyday Chassidim have always been central to Chassidishe Chinuch, as the Rebbeim taught us the power of storytelling in shaping a child's values. These anecdotes serve as a vital bridge between theory and practice, infusing warmth and connection into being a Chossid.
Storytelling has always played a significant role in MyShliach’s educational repertoire. It is a key feature in the Ach Sheli curriculum, Farbrengen programs for Yoma D’Pagra, and other initiatives. While the MyShliach Studio has previously been used for short-term projects like the Gimmel Tammuz Hachana program, it now embarks on a long-term journey.
"The power of a Chassidishe Maaseh is central to Lubavitcher Chinuch," says Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. "Through MyShliach, we’re continually striving to ensure that every child, has the resources to strengthen their Yiddishkeit and Hiskashrus to the Rebbe, in an accessible and fun way"
The new series has already launched, with six episodes available for listeners. Professionally recorded at the Merkos 302 Studio by noted storyteller Rabbi Achiezer Langzam, each episode packs twenty minutes of pure chassidishkeit and joy. The series begins with stories of Shmuel Munkes, a jovial Chossid of the Alter Rebbe, known for his humorous antics and deep devotion to the Rebbe’s teachings.
“Having listened to each episode released so far, with my sons on our hour-long drive to the nearest Jewish School, they’re incredible on many levels,” says Rabbi Ari Weingarten, Shliach to San Marcos, Texas. “The sound quality is top-notch, the storytelling is relatable and exciting, peppered with Yiddish words, and appropriate for kids of all ages. The chassidishe maasehs have enhanced our daily drive, prompting many quality discussions with my sons. We’re eagerly awaiting more episodes to be released.”
The series will journey through the generations, from the Alter Rebbe’s Chassidim to modern greats like R' Yoel Kahn and R’ Mendel Futerfas. “By including Chassidim from Dor HaShvi’i and stories of the Rebbe’s revolutionary Shlichus movement, we make the lessons more relatable to kids nowadays, especially those growing up on Shlichus themselves,” explains Rabbi Mendy Shanowitz, Director of MyShliach at Merkos 302.
Rabbi Langzam’s storytelling style, enhanced with sound effects and character voices, promises to captivate children in these hearty sagas. These easily accessible audio recordings can be played during playtime, on the drive to school, or at any convenient moment, bringing Chassidishe warmth into the lives of Chabad children and their families.
“Chassidishe maaseh’s remind us as Chassidim of what we strive to become. We hope learning about the Chassidim who exemplified our values, with true dedication to their Rebbeim, taps into the neshama of the listeners, and enhances their Yiras Shomayim” shares Rabbi Langzam.
Each episode concludes with a practical lesson for children, bringing the unique charm of renowned chassidim into the lives of young shluchim today. “The stories are packed with chassidishe tidbits which are sure to make an impression on the young listeners,” says Rabbi Yossi Elberg, MyShliach program director at Merkos 302.
MyShliach members can download the series on the new parent’s portal. Non-members too can access it free of charge on all major podcast platforms such as Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple Podcasts, as well as Jewish platforms such as 24six.com and Zing.
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