Machon Stam at the Kinus HaShluchim 5786: Completing a Sefer Torah in Memory of Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky zt”l

The Kinus HaShluchim Gala Banquet is always the emotional pinnacle of the International Conference of Chabad-Lubavitch Emissaries. This year, 5786 (2025), the evening carried an especially poignant note as the Chabad world continues to feel the absence of the legendary Vice Chairman of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch, Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky zt”l.

Members of the Kotlarsky family together with Rabbi Raskin of Machon Stam during the writing of the special Sefer Torah dedicated in memory of Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky zt”l.

In a moment that moved thousands to tears, a beautiful new Sefer Torah — written in his memory — was completed right there under the chandeliers of the banquet hall.

Mr. Sami Rohr and Rabbi Mayer Kotlarsky filling in a letter in the new Sefer Torah.

Rabbi Mendel Kotlarsky writing a letter in the Sefer Torah dedicated to his brother, Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky zt”l.

The sofer, surrounded by Shluchim and distinguished guests, carefully guided philanthropist Mr. George Rohr to fill in additional letters, joined by family members.

Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky writes a letter at the Kinus HaShluchim Gala Banquet.

As the last strokes of ink dried, the entire room rose in thunderous applause and song.

The completion was timed perfectly: immediately afterward came the traditional Roll Call of Shluchim. In years past, Rabbi Kotlarsky himself would call out every country and every state with infectious energy and unmistakable pride. This year, with Chabad’s global network now spanning more than 100 countries and growing faster than ever, the roll call was adapted to continents and regions — a powerful testament to the very expansion Rabbi Kotlarsky championed throughout his life.

And then, in classic Kinus style, the announcer called out, “A round of applause… for the whole wide world!” The hall erupted. The newly completed Sefer Torah was raised high, benches were pushed aside, and spontaneous dancing broke out — circles within circles, Shluchim young and old, linking arms and hearts in unbreakable unity.

Mr. Sami Rohr and Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky dancing with the newly completed Sefer Torah in memory of Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky zt”l.

Machon Stam was deeply honored to have written this special Sefer Torah. From the pristine klaf to the precise kesav Bei’yuh”s, every detail was prepared with the highest standards of halachic excellence, befitting a Torah that will now travel the globe in Rabbi Kotlarsky’s memory, inspiring the work of Shluchim everywhere.

May this Torah continue to illuminate the world with the light of Torah and chassidus that Rabbi Kotlarsky spread his entire life, until we merit to dance with all the Sifrei Torah in the ultimate celebration with Moshiach now!