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Dear friends!
You have nice chance to attend lectures on the Torah, Kabbalah and the circle of life according to the Jewish Law. People of different ages are welcomed. The oldest school children and students possibly get grants.
If you have questions - phone 7204022.
WHAT IS CHABAD?

Chabad is an international Jewish organization on the frontlines of Jewish education and activism. Whether it be for a college student in the USA, a soldier in Israel or an elderly Jew in Russia, the over 1200 Chabad centers throughout the world provide care, inspiration, hospitality and knowledge to Jews from all walks of life. Under the guidance of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M.
Shneerson, the organization has made (Ahavat Yisroel-love of a felow Jew- the driving force which gives it momentum. Acceptance of every Jew on their own level, regardless of their background, affiliation, age or finandial status, has become the trademark of Chabad. And by blending traditional values with modern day techniques, Chabad has been successful in reaching even the most alienated, helping them appreciate their roots and itdentify with their Judaism with pride.

CHABAD-LUBAVITCH LATVIA

The Chabad Center in Latvia was established in March 1992. At that time Rabbi Mordechai Glazman was sent by the Lubavitcher Rebbe to revive Judaism in the newly independent Baltic State. Soon joined by his growing family, the Glazmans settled in Riga to make this their life's mission.
The change has been tremendous. The dissipating Jewish Community has become vibrant once more. The younger generation are no longer emabarrassed to identify themselves as Jews. More and more families are making sure to provide their children with a Jewish education. The local newspapers make sure to cover the Jewish Holidays which are attended by hundreds of Jews.
Chabad is a familiar address to all. Its the place where one can find information and help in any area of Jewish life.

JUST FOR KIDS

The Ohel Menachem Kindergarten and Dayschool, prides itself in quality education, both in judaica and secular areas. The children learn in 4 languages and enjoy many extra-curricular activities, such as; music, art, dance, sport and drama. Computers has been instituted so the children become acquainted with this modern tool early in life. The children are instilled with pride for their heritage and prepare for the Jewish Holidays with excitement. Parents are encouraged to join their children in this new experience and can attend weekly classes to question and learn. Afterall, Jewish Schools were certainly not available when they were young.
Ohel Menachem is a warm anchor for both parent and child. A place where children enjoy learning so much they don't want to leave. No one is turned away for lack of funds. We feel that every jewish child deserves the wonderful experience our Chabad School offers.

ALL AROUND THE YEAR

Everyone in Riga knows that when a Jewish holiday comes around- Chabad is the place to be. No one is left out as there are programs for all ages. On Chanukah, thousands join together at a public Menorah lighting. All are invited to attend the communal Passover Seder that we organize. Before Pesach, a Model Matzah Bakery is attended by hundreds of kids who get the chance to bake their own Matzah as they learn about the holiday. Purim is celebrated at the Synagogue with clowns, music, dancing and a masquerade. The annual bonfire on Lag Ba'omer is eagerly awaited. Young adults gather before each holiday to learn the basics in a fun, non- threatening atmosphere. No matter what the season, Chabad is here to foster an awareness and appreciation of Judaism, exposing people to the joy, depth and beauty that is the inheritance of each and every Jew.

FOOD FOR THE BODY...

The large elderly population of Latvia, find themselves relying on a pension that can't even begin to cover their living expenses. Most are too proud to ask, but are hungry- hungry for food and for for friends.
Chabad's Soup Kitchen is a place that many can call home. Each day, hot meals are served to a full Dining Hall of elderly and needy. It is a place to find a warm word and a friendly smile.
The Soup Kitchen is also the base from where 300 food packages are distributed monthly to the homebound and disabled, providing them with nutritious basic necessities.
The phone rings all day at Chabad, with people searching for help. Money for a funeral, for an operation, for medicine or for a loaf of bread. As funds are distributed, the list keeps growing, and they keep calling.

...AND THE SOUL (or - A Lesson for All)

Chabad believes that education and knowledge are the basic necessities for a Jew. Educational programs are offered on all levels, for all ages.
Sunday School provides a full Jewish education for children who are not yet attending a Jewish School. Traditions and values are transmitted through stories, games and song. Ivrit is taught by proffesional teachers and reading and writing skills are stressed.
The teenage club gathers weekly and their Hebrew lessons are suplemented by computers, baking and field trips.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah classes are given, culminating on the special day with a family celebration in the Synagogue.
The older generation are taught in their native Yiddish. Daily study groups for men and weekly for women, bring back the joy of the Holidays and traditions. Participants are encouraged to share their own stories and memories of Jewish life.
Jewish Education does not stop at the end of the school year. Taking advantage of the free time, Chabad organizes 3 full months of summer camps for children of all ages. At Camp Gan Israel, each child has a genuine Jewish experience in a fun-filled atmosphere. At both overnight camp and daycamp, children are fed nutritious hot meals and have a chance to learn, play and live like a Jew. At the end of the summer, many of these children are enrolled for a full time Jewish Education in Ohel Menachem Day School.

JEWISH LIFE

During Soviet times, Jews risked their jobs and even their lives to circumcise their sons. Now thank G-d, Brissim are done on a ongoing basis. Just this year, 80 Jews between the ages of 2 months and 52 years agreed to undergo circumcision as our People have done for the past 3000 years. And for the first time in modern Latvian history, 2 families celebrated as their 8 day old sons had a traditional Bris Milah- at home, in the arms of a loving grandfather.
The old timers at the synagogue have tears in their eyes as, the young boy recites the blessings on the Torah. A Bar Mitzvah is taking place, bringing back memories of their own Bar Mitzvahs so many years ago.
Nowadays it is almost commonplace. Boys begin preparing months in advance, with lessons in Judaism and Hebrew reading. When the special day arrives, a family celebration is prepared at the synagogue as the boy is called to the Torah and dons Tefillin for the first time in his life.
Chabad is also a center for the distribution of religious articles and Jewish books. Our lending library is frequently visited and additional books are constantly being bought. Brochures are distributed on all topics of Jewish interest. The demand for Kippot, Talit, Prayer books, Mezuzot Jewish calendars and Shabbat candlesticks keep growing. Menorahs for Chanukah, Graggers for Purim, Matzoh on Pesach and flags for Simchat Torah are widely distributed.

KOSHER CAFE "LECHAIM"

Kosher cafe is waiting for you. We offer traditional Jewish meals, breakfast, lunch, supper.
Celebrations meeting friends. You may order a banquet at a cafe or some traditional dishes delivered to you.
Our address: Skolas str. 6 (entrance at Dzirnavu str.)
Ph.: 7204023, 7280235


News
The school and kindergarten Habad-Lubavitch celebrates Chanukkah.

Latvia’s Day of Independence.

Seasonal Holidays in Riga.

Passover is the holiday that marks the birth of the Jewish nation.

Purim the merriest holiday of the Jewish year is around.

Tu B' Shevat.

Chanukah is the holiday of fire, light and the Jewish spirit.

Simchas Beis Hashoeva in Riga, Latvia.

JEWS IN RIGA CELEBRATE THE HIGH-HOLIDAYS.

One Day Out Of Life Of Jewish Schoolchildren.

Chabad Lubavitch Latvia © 2005
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