Congregation Ahavas Yisrael – Chabad of Greater Orlando is Maitland’s one and only unorthodox Orthodox Synagogues – a popular center for Jews of all backgrounds who want to learn more about their Jewish roots. Located in our newly renovated beautiful building on Lake Howell Road, Chabad offers a wide variety of educational and spiritual opportunities, including Torah classes and lectures, Shabbaton dinners, and an array of family and social activities. Traditional Jewish values are brought to life in a joyous, non-judgmental atmosphere.
Chabad serves all segments of the Jewish community. Everyone is welcome regardless of their personal level of religious observance. The philosophy is in keeping with the Chabad-Lubavitch approach of joy, scholarship and unconditional acceptance and love for every Jew.
Chabad is under the spiritual guidance of Rabbi Sholom B. Dubov, a warm, caring and scholarly individual, who formed the congregation in 1985. The rabbi’s approach is that Torah must be presented and experienced in a modern, relevant context and made available to each individual on their own level. Rabbi Dubov and his wife Devorah Leah are emissaries of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson.
The services are traditional, and are conducted in a joyous, casual atmosphere. Children are included and most welcome. Many of those who attend cannot read Hebrew, yet everyone feels at home. The prayer book is bi-lingual and various English readings are included in the service. Song and commentary add meaning and participation to the prayers.
An important part of our community is the weekly Kiddush Luncheon that follows the Shabbat morning services, where friendships are created and nurtured and we celebrate each other’s happy occasions and anniversaries.
The Hebrew School Program, translates the Chabad warmth and spirit to the youngsters. The children actually look forward to attending Hebrew School, where they are taught, in addition to Hebrew reading and writing, the meaning of our rich Heritage and the joys if being Jewish. Outings, contests and celebrations add an exciting dimension to the program. One on one classes are available with the Rabbi for full Bar/Bat Mitzvah program.
Please allow yourself the opportunity to visit and Prayerparticipate in our vibrant congregation. By becoming a member at Congregation Ahavas Yisrael you will acquire lifelong friendships, an opportunity for spiritual growth, and most importantly a chance to be a part of your Jewish community. Please feel free to visit us for services or any other program, or just stop in to say hello.