About Us
About Chabad Brighton
Welcome to Chabad Brighton, where we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant and connected community through the teachings of Judaism. Our mission is to spread joy and togetherness by bringing people together in a welcoming and inclusive environment. We welcome Jewish people of all denominations and levels of observance. Join us as we celebrate the rich traditions of our faith and connect with others who share a passion to learn more.
For over thirty-seven years Chabad Brighton has been a hub of Jewish connection, growth and impact.
Rabbi Pesach & Penina Efune
Establishing Chabad Brighton in 1987, Rabbi Pesach and Penina Efune have been spreading the light of judaism and uniting the community of Brighton and Hove.
Rabbi Pesach Efune, was born and educated in South Africa and attended yeshivot in Israel, Venezuela, Morristown and New York, where he received his Rabbinical Ordination.
Establishing the Torah Academy Jewish Primary School in 1988, the first jewish educational school in Sussex. This unique exceptional school operated for nineteen years (1988-2007).
Rabbi Pesach, as he is called by many, is the Director of Chabad Lubavitch Brighton, and in addition to overseeing the many activities run by the Chabad House, he is also a qualified mohel, prison and hospital chaplain and in general just a nice and approachable guy!
Penina Efune born in London and graduated from the Jewish Teacher’s Training College in New York. After raising her large family she went to North London University and gained a B.Ed (Hons) degree and later also became a qualified EYP (Early Years Practitioner.)
Penina has been teaching for close to 40 years and is passionate about giving quality meaningful experiences to all ages from babies to adults.
Rabbi Zalman & Shterna Lewis
If you’re a university student looking to connect with your Jewish roots and community, Chabad at South East Coast Universities has got you covered.
Founded in 2006 as part of Chabad Brighton’s expansion, Rabbi Zalman Lewis and Shertna joined the team and have been serving delicious Shabbat meals, hosting fun social events, and providing informal Jewish education and counseling to hundreds of students.
Our efforts extend far beyond Brighton & Hove. Rabbi Lewis has travelled thousands of miles across the south coast, from the University of Kent, across the coastline to Southampton, to ensure that Jewish students get the support and inspiration they need.
What is Chabad?
Chabad is an international organisation.
It is considered to be the most dynamic force in
Jewish Life today.
The word “Chabad” is a Hebrew acronym for the three intellectual faculties of chochmah—wisdom, binah—comprehension and da’at—knowledge.
Chabad offers a comprehensive system of Jewish religious philosophy, providing an in-depth understanding of the Creator, the purpose of creation, and the unique mission of each creature. Through this philosophy, individuals can refine and govern their actions and emotions, using wisdom, comprehension, and knowledge. Why not come and discover how Chabad can guide you towards a meaningful and purposeful life?
The word “Lubavitch” is the name of the town in Russia where the movement was based for more than a century.
The name Lubavitch, meaning “city of brotherly love” in Russian, encapsulates the essence of the Chabad philosophy’s responsibility and love towards every Jew.
Our community is founded on the teachings of seven revered leaders known as “Rebbes,” who began with the esteemed Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (1745–1812). These leaders delved into the deepest aspects of Jewish mysticism, creating a vast library of over thousands of books. They embodied the timeless qualities of piety and leadership as described in the Bible, and their love and dedication extended beyond Chabad-Lubavitch to encompass all aspects of Jewish life – both spiritual and physical.
In our current generation, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson of blessed memory (1902–1994), affectionately referred to as “the Rebbe,” steered post-holocaust Jewry towards safety from the traumatic effects of that devastation. His wisdom and guidance continue to inspire and guide countless individuals from all walks of life, and his teachings remain a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. At Chabad Brighton, we invite you to explore and learn more about the legacy of “the Rebbe” and how his teachings can transform your life.
Chabad.org serves as an important resource for Jewish education, practice, and community building, and has become a popular destination for Jews of all backgrounds seeking to deepen their connection to Jewish tradition and culture.
Jewish Learning: The website offers a comprehensive online learning center where users can access a vast library of Jewish texts, including the Torah, Talmud, and other sacred writings. There are also courses, classes, and study guides available for users of all levels.
Jewish Practice: Chabad.org provides resources for Jewish practice, including daily prayers, blessings, and rituals. The website also offers guidance on Jewish life-cycle events, such as weddings, funerals, and bar/bat mitzvahs
Jewish Calendar: The website has a comprehensive Jewish calendar that lists all the holidays and special occasions, along with their history and significance. Users can also find information about upcoming events and celebrations in their local area.
Community: Chabad.org provides a platform for Jewish communities to connect and engage with one another. The website features a directory of Chabad centers around the world, as well as a forum for discussion and a section for submitting prayer requests.
Chabad in the UK
How it Began
Starting out in Stamford Hill, Chabad in the UK began in 1959. Since then the organisation has rapidly expanded with the Stamford Hill site remaining as the HQ for UK activities.
Locations in the UK
Providing a welcoming open door to Jewish people of all walks of life, no matter their background or affiliation.
Across the UK there are Chabad Houses, Schools, Chabad on Campus and Social Services.
Mission of Chabad UK
Chabad UK prides itself on its unique approach, striving towards:
- Providing a welcoming open door to Jewish people of all walks of life, no matter their background or affiliation.
- Making Judaism accessible and relevant to every Jew by empowering them to personally take ownership of their Judaism in a meaningful way, never underestimating the value of a single deed.
- Caring for and supporting the welfare of Jewish people and communities with devotion and affection – no matter the time, place or need.
- Educating a generation of dedicated and skilled leaders who live by the words “Love your fellow as yourself”.