Chabad Lubavitch of South Texas Overview, Programs & Activities

Overview

Chabad Lubavitch is an intentional Chassidic organization founded in 18th century Russia in the city of Lubavitch. The word Chabad is an acrostic of three Hebrew words, Chochma, Bina, Daas - Wisdom, Understanding, and Knowledge, the three levels of the intellectual process, signifying the profound intellectual philosophy of the movement. Chabad Lubavitch, in addition to concerning themselves with the spiritual needs of their people, have devoted their attention to the general condition of our people throughout the world.

Since the move of Lubavitch headquarters to New York from Eastern Europe during World War II, and under the leadership of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, Lubavitch has expanded it's centers to 28 countries on 6 continents. In Israel there are over 200 Lubavitch educational and vocational institutions that have played an integral role in the growth and development of the Holy Land. In this country alone there are over 250 Chabad Lubavitch centers in 42 states totaling close to 1200 branches world wide.

In February of 1985 Chabad Lubavitch was established in San Antonio. Since its inception Chabad of South Texas has reached out to thousands of Jews throughout the South Texas area. During this relatively short time Chabad's dedicated efforts to reach every Jew has endeared them to a wide cross section of the local Jewish community. Chabad Lubavitch constantly seeks innovative ways to teach and interest as many Jews as possible in their rich Jewish heritage. Here is a summary of the multi-faceted work of Chabad Lubavitch to heighten Jewish awareness and knowledge.

Programs and Activities

Gan Israel Summer Day Camp

Gan Israel has established a reputation for excellence in providing a fun-filled, exciting day of activities and sports in a warm and nurturing Jewish environment. Activities include sports, field trips, gymnastics, swimming, karate, music, arts and crafts, etc. Founded in 1986 Gan Israel has grown from an enrollment of 30 children to an enrollment of over 100 children.

Gan Gani Preschool

Gan Gani Preschool strives to help our children grow and develop physically, mentally and emotionally. At Gan Gani Jewish holidays and traditions, introduction to the Hebrew Alef-bet and talk about Israel are an integral part of the program. Gan Gani fosters a positive approach to things Jewish, and affords the child Jewish experiences that will be a source of joy to them.

Holiday Brochures and Celebrations

Colorful, attractive, and informative, Chabad's holiday brochures are a much appreciated resource to our community before major Jewish holidays. Chabad's holiday celebrations include Chanuka Mennora lightings, Family Purim Feasts, picnics and carnivals, community Passover Saders, Shavout children celebrations, Sukkot dinners, etc. These events help bring the beauty and significance of these holidays to life for many of our fellow Jews.

Prison Visitations

Regular visits to area correctional facilities serve as a vital link to the outside community for incarcerated Jewish inmates. Many of our brethren are using this very difficult and unfortunate experience as an opportunity to discover their roots, and turn over a new leaf, thanks to the encouragement and support of these visits. Chabad is regularly contacted by people across the country to come to the aid of a prisoner being transferred to the South Texas area.

Adult Education

Lunch and learn business groups, Women's Jewish Heritage classes, Couples groups, classes in Jewish history, philosophy, mysticism, and more provide for open and stimulating discussions of our Jewish faith, heritage, and observance.

Religious Services

Friday night and Shabbat morning services in a small and "Heimeshe'' environment become enjoyable reaming experiences at Chabad. Explanation of the various prayers and summaries of each Torah reading allow participants to come away with an understanding and an appreciation of the service and the weekly Torah portion.

Russian Immigrant Outreach

Through Jewish publications in Russian, (i.e. newspapers, history, bibles, prayer books, pamphlets on the holidays, etc.), special holiday celebrations and personal visits, Chabad endeavors to transmit our Jewish heritage to our new American community with warmth, patience, and understanding.

FAX of Life

"Torah on the Spot for People on the Go" Weekly Torah thoughts and antidotes are transmitted via the fax machine to business throughout the community.

Individual Counseling

Often what people need during a particularly difficult time is an understanding and sympathetic ear. Chabad has been there and will continue to be there to assist and encourage during times of need.

Speakers and Entertainment

Throughout the year Chabad sponsors concerts, special events, and guest speakers enhancing the quality of Jewish cultural opportunities available to the San Antonio Jewish community.

Chabad Dinners and Shabbatons

Delicious Friday night dinners complimented by stories and discussions help create warm and memorable Shabbat experiences. Often these evenings inspire families to begin their own Friday night observances. Chabad House also has comfortable accommodations for those who wish to spend the entire weekend in a Shabat environment.