OK Kosher Gathers Mashgichim from Around the World for Annual Conference
Rabbis serving as Mashgichim for the OK Kosher Certification gathered in Crown Heights on Monday, December 2nd, Rosh Chodesh Kislev, for the organization’s annual International Mashgiach Conference. The event, which brought together Rabbinic authorities from across the globe, provided a valuable opportunity for learning, networking, and discussion on developments in Kashrus and the ever-evolving food industry.
The conference coincided withIsIn a welcome gesture, participants were presentedj Lowell, the arrival of many participants in New York for the International Kinus Hashluchim. According to reports, each attendee received a copy of the newest Sefer from Chassidus Mevueres.
The program featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including prominent members of the OK Executive Vaad HaKashrus: Rabbi Chaim Fogelman, Rabbi Shlomo Weinfeld, and Rabbi Sholom Ber Hendel. Also addressing the gathering was Rabbi Eli Lando, the organization’s Executive Manager.
Additional presentations were made by Rabbi Avi Rapoport, Rabbinic Coordinator and Manager of the Israel affiliate office; Rabbi Etan Mayo, of the Private Label Department; Rabbi Hendel Weingarten, a Field Representative; and Rabbi Sholom Kesselman, serving as both West Coast Food Service Coordinator and Director of Consumer Outreach.
Rabbi Chaim Yisroel Wilhelm of L’maan Yilmedu, spoke on the successful partnership between their organization and OK Kosher in educating the public on Hilchos Kashering and Kashrus. The conference concluded with a video highlighting the OK Winery Mashgiach Conference held in Israel, offering insights into another facet of the organization’s global reach and expertise.
Following the International Mashgiach Conference, a stirring siyum Sefer Torah was held in memory of Rabbi Don Yoel Levy, the longtime head of OK Kosher.
* What are some of the ways that the 13th International Annual Mashgiach Conference helps Mashgichim stay up-to-date with the evolving needs of the community regarding kosher practices?
## Keeping Kosher: A Conversation with an OK Kosher Mashgiach
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re joined by a Rabbi who recently attended the 13th International Annual Mashgiach Conference hosted by OK Kosher Certification. Rabbi, thank you for being here.
**Rabbi:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** So, for our listeners who may not be familiar, can you tell us a bit about what a Mashgiach does and the importance of the conference?
**Rabbi:** A Mashgiach is a trained Rabbi who oversees the kosher status of food production facilities. We ensure that all ingredients and processes adhere to Jewish dietary laws. The annual conference is a crucial opportunity for Mashgichim from around the world to connect, share best practices, and learn about new developments in the field of kosher supervision.
**Interviewer:** Fascinating. The article mentions the conference was held in Brooklyn, New York. Can you tell us about the atmosphere and what some of the key topics were?
**Rabbi:** The atmosphere was vibrant and collaborative. Mashgichim from different countries and backgrounds came together to discuss everything from new technologies in food production to emerging kosher trends. There were also workshops on handling complex kosher issues and maintaining the highest standards of kashrut.
**Interviewer:** That sounds incredibly valuable. What do you take away from this conference that will impact your work moving forward?
**Rabbi:** I am always inspired by the dedication of my fellow Mashgichim and the commitment of OK Kosher Certification to ensuring the integrity of kosher products.
This year’s conference reinforced the importance of staying abreast of advancements in the field and constantly improving our methods to meet the evolving needs of the Jewish community. [[1](https://www.ok.org/article/ok-kosher-certification-held-its-13th-international-annual-mashgiach-conference/)]
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today, Rabbi.
**Rabbi:** My pleasure.
