1. DO WE HAVE TO BE MEMBERS OF CHABAD TO ENROLL OUR CHILDREN IN the jewish enrichment club?
The Chabad Jewish Community Center's No Membership Philosophy makes our programs accessible to all. Everyone is welcomed as family. Our unique approach and unconditional acceptance of every Jew has created a dynamic and flourishing Jewish Community. We are constantly expanding our programs and services, such as our JEC, to serve everyone and we invite you to join us at any time.
2. MY FAMILY IS NOT RELIGIOUS; WILL I FEEL COMFORTABLE IN THE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER CHABAD ENVIRONMENT?
Chabad is inclusive and non-judgmental, and our programs are open to all Jews. In fact, the vast majority of people who participate in programs are not Orthodox. The lessons are imbued with the renowned Jewish spirit and joy, but in no way is the commitment to an Orthodox lifestyle a prerequisite to one's acceptance at the Center’s programs, activities & schools.
Please feel free to stop by to see for yourself the warmth and welcome everyone receives regardless of their personal religious affiliation and practices.
3. DO WE HAVE TO MAKE ANY COMMITMENTS LIKE KEEPING KOSHER TO ENROLL OUR CHILDREN IN THE HEBREW SCHOOL?
We are not out to make one Orthodox. Our Center is an educational organization dedicated to helping every Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, or personal level of observance, to increase their level of Jewish knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment.
All of our classes, programs, and services are designed to heighten the awareness and lend valuable insight into your Jewish heritage. Each individual is invited to participate, study, and learn. Each individual makes his or her own respective religious, lifestyle decisions at his or her own pace.
4. WILL I BE ABLE TO SIT NEXT TO MY HUSBAND AT OUR CHILD’S BAR/BAT MITZVAH?
One of the beautiful aspects about a Bar/Bat Mitzvah service and celebration is that it is a personal family event that you share with family, friends and community. Each service reflects on the uniqueness of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah student and the family involved.
To help cater to the many different families involved with the Center, we have many different
opportunities for your family to choose from, including some that do allow for men and women to sit together as a family.
5. MY SPOUSE IS NOT JEWISH – WOULD S/HE BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN OUR CHILD’S BAR/BAT MITZVAH SERVICE?
Yes, there are many opportunities during the Bar/Bat Mitzvah that someone who is not Jewish, whether a parent, relative or friend, could participate in.