Follow ChabadInfo & Never Miss an Update!

Follow us on Instagram Subscribe to our WhatsApp status and broadcast Follow us on Tiktok Follow us on Facebook Follow us on X Follow us on Google News Subscribe on YouTube

For the first time since the founding of Jurmala, the city’s bustling Jomas Street came to a standstill as hundreds gathered to celebrate the opening of the first permanent Chabad House in the heart of Latvia’s renowned resort city. Among those in attendance were the Mayor of Jurmala, Latvia’s Rabbanim, leaders of the Jewish communities, and distinguished guests from around the world.

Rabbi Mendy Zilbershtrom, the Rebbe’s Shliach and director of Chabad of Jurmala, opened the historic ceremony by welcoming the crowd: “Welcome to the opening of Chabad of Jurmala!” He described the new center as more than just another Jewish institution. “A Chabad House is a home—a home for every Jew, whether a resident, traveler, or tourist. Everyone will be welcomed here with love.”

Rabbi Mendy and Shoshi Zilbershtrom arrived in Jurmala approximately four years ago as the Rebbe’s Shluchim, and since then have significantly expanded the Jewish activities that had already begun in the city.

The growing network of programs was established through the initiative of Chabad of Riga, under the leadership of the Rebbe’s Shliach to Latvia, Rabbi Mordechai Glazman, and managed by Rabbi Shneur Kot.

After years of operating from temporary locations, the long-awaited dream of establishing a permanent Chabad House in the center of the city became a reality.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, participants entered the new building, where a mezuzah was affixed and words of blessing were shared.

Although the Mayor of Jurmala is not Jewish, he addressed the gathering with words that resonated deeply with the Chassidic spirit. “A Chossid should always be joyful. Let’s say L’chaim!” he declared. He also shared his personal connection to the Rebbe and expressed his excitement that the new Chabad House had opened in the heart of Jomas Street, the city’s central thoroughfare.

The uplifting atmosphere brought together local residents alongside guests from Eretz Yisroel, the United States, Europe, and beyond, who said a heartfelt L’chaim to celebrate the opening of the new center, a historic moment in which a long-held dream became reality.

Rabbi Zilbershtrom expressed special thanks to Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky for his invaluable assistance in making the establishment of the Chabad House possible.

The opening of Chabad of Jurmala marks the beginning of a new chapter for Jewish life in the city, one of continued growth, strengthened Yiddishkeit, and increased Jewish pride, as the community prepares to greet Moshiach Tzidkeinu.

1