Frequently Asked Question's about Chabad
What is Chabad of Oviedo-Winter Springs?
Our Chabad House is a home away from home, where we come together to learn and to grow, to discuss, and to debate, to sing, to rejoice, and to celebrate. It is a place to inspire your family and to develop new friendships.
We have an environment for Jewish men, women and children that is relaxed yet challenging; a place of stability yet full of growth with an atmosphere for reflection, and joyous expression.
Q: Do you have to be Orthodox to participate in programs offered by Chabad?
A: Chabad is inclusive and non-judgmental, and our programs are open to all Jews. In fact, the majority of people who participate in programs at Chabad are not Orthodox. The teachings of Chabad are imbued with the renowned Chassidic spirit and joy, but in no way is the commitment to an Orthodox lifestyle a prerequisite to one's acceptance at Chabad functions.
Q: What Is the goal of Chabad
A: Chabad 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. Chabad invites you to explore the complex areas of Jewish religion, tradition, and practice in an open-minded and non-judgmental atmosphere. All of Chabad's classes, programs, and services are designed to heighten the awareness and lend valuable insight into one's heritage, traditions, religious practice, laws and rituals. 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. Each mitzvah stands on its own as an important step in ones personal growth.
Q: Does Chabad consider "non-practicing" Jews as real Jews?
A: Certainly! a Jew is Jew is Jew - Period. Chabad avoids labeling other Jews, since it tends to divide and create barriers between us. Jewish Law has traditionally considered anyone born of a Jewish mother or converted in accordance with Halacha to be a Jew, regardless of his or her degree of observance. The Lubavitcher Rebbe delivered a stinging rebuke to Orthodox elements in the USA and Israel for publicly belittling non-Orthodox Jews.
Q: Is it okay to pray in English at Chabad?
A: Yes, our prayerbooks have both Hebrew and English, so you can pray in the language in which you feel most comfortable. Learning and discussions take place in English - so you'll understand everything that's going on.
Q: Does Chabad support Israel?
A: Chabad is deeply involved in defending Israel and its right to exist, throughout all its boundaries. Many Chabadniks serve in the IDF and others contribute practical and spiritual support to the troops. Chabad has over 150 centers in Israel, as well as dozens of educational facilities around the country. Lubavitch trained Rabbis often complete their training is Israeli Yeshivot. The Rebbe himself encouraged support of the UJA.
Q: Does Chabad accept converts?
A: Chabad follows traditional Jewish Law which states that any non-Jew who feels sincerely convinced of the beauty and relevance of Torah, who is prepared to follow the traditions of the Torah, and therefore, wishes to join the community of the Jewish people, is welcomed as a convert. The conversion process requires immersion in a kosher mikvah, circumcision for men, and most importantly, acceptance of Judaism observance.
How do become a member at Chabad?
A: Chabad of Oviedo-Winter Springs doesn't have traditional synagogue membership every Jew is treated as member.
Joining Chabad is simple! Just come on by. Everyone who is interested in exploring Judaism and who wants to experience the joy of being Jewish is welcome. Even our High Holiday Services do not require membership or tickets. Walk into a Shabbat Service, class, or holiday event, and you will immediately feel at home.
Chabad is funded by the local Oviedo-Winter Springs community, we encourage you to our giving circle called Chai Club.
To join our mailing list, CLICK HERE
To join our Chai Club, CLICK HERE
Q: Is the Chabad of Oviedo-Winter Springs financed by its headquarters in New York?
A: It is Chabad policy that each center is supported by the community it serves. All funding for local Chabad programs is solicited locally. No money is sent to international Chabad headquarters in New York. All funds donated remain right here in our community.