LET THERE BE LIGHT
Every person was placed in this world with a unique contribution towards filling the world with light.
We seek to engage and empower every person with Jewish wisdom and values to utilize their skills, talents and resources to make the world a better, brighter place.
In 1975 The Chabad Rebbe sent Rabbinical students as his first emissaries to help spread Judaism on the islands of Hawaii. Since then each summer a couple Rabbinical students would visit the Jews on the islands during the summer break. In 2009 A permanent Chabad presence was established on the Big island with the arrival of the Chazanows. In 2017 the Gerlitzkys were appointed the new Chabad Representatives on the island.
Our Staff
Rabbi Levi Gerlitzky grew up in Brooklyn, NY where his father serves as a Rabbi coordinator for senior citizen homes, adult day care centers, and hospitals. He studied in Rabbinical seminaries in New York, France, and Los Angeles and was ordained in 2014.
Rabbi Gerlitzky has had extensive experience in Jewish outreach. From helping to run Passover seders in New York, Toronto, Texas, and South Korea, to voluntarily spending summers visiting & encouraging Jews in Louisiana, Mississippi, and northern California. Rabbi Gerlitzky's pleasant demeanor and listening ear ensure a pleasant encounter.
Rebbetzin Fraidy (nee Levin) is from Palo Alto, CA. Where her parents serve as the Chabad representatives to the local community. She has studied Judaism in the Bay Area, New York, and Israel. As a child of emissaries of the Chabad Rebbe, she lives with the idea of spreading the joys of Judaism to others around her.
Fraidy has taught a wide range of ages in day schools and Hebrew schools. Her devotion to the students, coupled with a profound insight into the mind of a child, has earned the admiration of parents and students. Fraidy has also directed winter and summer camps for children with special needs in the Bay Area, CA.
The Gerlitzkys got married in 2015 and lived in NY where Rabbi Levi continued his Jewish studies. In 2016 they went to Lagos, Nigeria to run the Chabad high holiday services for the local community.
They have now committed to being the Chabad Representatives on the Big Island of Hawaii and are excited to run Its activities which include; Synagogue services, Hebrew School, adult education, Shabbat and holiday meals, holiday programs, and social activities for the local Jewish community.
With their welcoming and non-judgmental approach, the Gerlitzky's are eager to share the joy and inspiration of Judaism with others, enhancing Jewish life on the Bis Island of Hawaii.
Chabad Big Island
Chabad Jewish Center is your address for everything Jewish on the Big Island of Hawaii. Join us for our synagogue services, our exciting holiday programs, an enriching class, or a reinvigorating Shabbat meal. There is something for everyone here. Join our email list to be kept abreast of all that’s happening.
Chabad is founded on the principle that, while people embrace many levels of observance in their personal lives, there should be a place for no labels, and all affiliations. A place where people can develop a sense of community and enhance their own spiritual experiences of Judaism.
Chabad has successfully catered to hundreds of people from all backgrounds, offering Judaism in an accepting and innovative setting where all feel welcome. The goal is to create a positive Jewish experience for everyone as they strengthen their ties to Jewish life and continuity. We are dedicated to making the beauty and joys of our Jewish traditions and heritage accessible, relevant, and meaningful.
Chabad is a place where everyone is welcome. You may consider yourself reform, conservative, orthodox, or unaffiliated, at Chabad, we see you as Jewish. No labels. No differences. Chabad of the Big Island is a home for every Jew. We welcome and accept all Jews regardless of their background, affiliation, or level of knowledge. Our sole purpose is to create a warm welcoming environment to explore and experience our heritage and Judaism’s warm and relevant spiritual inspirations in a non-judgmental and inviting atmosphere.
Chabad is looking forward to meeting you, so send us an email, give us a call, sign up for our email and mailing list, and browse through our website. We encourage you to learn more and become an active participant in and supporter of our vibrant and growing community - we look forward to personally greeting you at an upcoming event or class. Looking for Kosher food in Hawaii, A minyan in Hawaii? How about Shabbat or holiday services or meals? You have come to the right place. Chabad of the Big Island offers all of this and more. Your home away from home.
More info about the Chabad movement
How are we Funded
Chabad Jewish Center of the Big Island is an independent non-profit 501c3 organization financed entirely by contributions from anyone in the community or our visitors, who want to partner with the great and vital work we do here.
No formal membership is required in order to join and participate in Chabad's activities and our community,
If you would like to discuss partnering and dedication opportunities, please contact Rabbi Gerlitzky.
Get in touch!
Click here for our contact info