Living Jewishly in Tatarstan
Far from St. Petersburg or Moscow, the city of Naberezhnye Chelny in the Russian Republic of Tatarstan is a booming industrial hub. For decades, the Jews of Naberezhnye Chelny lived without a rabbi, without a synagogue, and often without a clear connection to their heritage. That changed six months ago with the arrival of Rabbi Chaim […]
First Torah Scroll in Over a Century Dedicated in Taganrog
In a joyful and historic celebration, the Jewish community of Russian Taganrog – led by Rabbi Arie Leib Tkatch – marked a milestone with the dedication of a new Torah scroll—the first written specifically for the local community in over one hundred years. The event took place on the 14th of Tammuz, echoing the spirit […]
Century-old scripture found during preservation work on Siberian synagogue
The wooden prayer hall was erected in Tomsk by Jews who’d been taken as children and forcefully conscripted to the Czar’s army for 20 years. By Canaan Lidor | JNS | Photo: The Soldiers’ Synagogue in Tomsk, Russia, pictured on Jan. 28, 2018. Photo by Canaan Lidor. (July 17, 2025 / JNS) During preservation work […]
Graduation Ceremony Celebrates Dozens of Accomplished Students in Moscow
The Jewish University of Moscow, held a festive and emotional graduation ceremony for 27 students at the Marina Rosche JCC campus marking their academic achievements over the years. The graduates completed bachelor’s degrees in various fields, including marketing and advertising, computer science, and economics. Thirteen of the students were awarded dual degrees—both a Russian bachelor’s […]
‘Semirya’ Camp in Rostov Offers Lifeline for Jewish Children with Special Needs and Their Families
Five years ago, the Jewish community of Rostov, under the leadership of Chief Rabbi and Chabad emissary Chaim and Mrs. Kalya Danzinger, established Semirya, an organization dedicated to supporting children with special needs and their families. Semirya—named from the Russian words semya (family), mir (world), and ya (I)—symbolizes a vision of opening up the world […]
Empowered to Impact: 130 Jewish Students Join Transformative Journey to Georgia
One hundred and thirty outstanding Jewish students and young professionals from Russia and additional FSU countries completed a transformative year of Jewish heritage study and project development training under the YAHAD organization, culminating in a meaningful and empowering educational journey to Georgia. Ever asked yourself how to promote community involvement? YAHAD did—and created a new, […]
Outstanding Children of ‘Beit Chaya’ Children’s Home in Moscow Embark on Annual Trip — This Year to China
In keeping with a cherished tradition, twenty outstanding students from the ‘Beit Chaya’ Jewish Orphanage and Children’s Home in Moscow were rewarded with an unforgettable five-day journey to China. The trip, made possible by the generous support of an anonymous donor, celebrated students’ exceptional conduct, dedication to their studies, and care for others. Each year, […]
‘Am Israel Chai’: A surprising visit to Georgia’s Jewish community
Amid global antisemitism, Georgia remains a warm haven for Israelis and Jews, with vibrant traditions, Hebrew signage and Chabad-led communities thriving in Tbilisi and beyond By Ayelet Mamo Shay | Ynetnews.com Even during challenging times for Israelis, affection for Israel radiates throughout Georgia. Locals speak Hebrew, street signs appear in Hebrew – sometimes even in […]
German Foreign Minister Visits Chabad’s “Mishpacha” Orphanage in Odesa
In a moving and high-profile state visit, Germany’s Foreign Minister Mr. Johann Wadephul, together with German Ambassador to Ukraine Mr. Martin Jäger and Germany’s Honorary Consul in Odessa Mr. Alexander Kipke, visited the FJC Chabad institutions in Odesa, led by Chief Rabbi of Southern Ukraine, Rabbi Avraham Wolff. The delegation came to witness the broad […]
Moscow: Joyous Torah Celebration at the Solomon Hills Community
A moving inauguration ceremony was held at the Chabad House of the Solomon Hills community in Moscow’s Pokrovsky Hills neighborhood, marking the dedication of two Torah scrolls. The event, attended by a large gathering of local residents and guests from across the city, was filled with joy, unity, and spiritual elevation. The Chief Rabbi of […]