BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF KHARKOV JEWISH COMMUNITY
Seventy years of Communism had almost extinguished any sign of Jewish life in Kharkov- the second largest city in the Ukraine - with a Jewish population of over 50,000. In September 1990, the Lubavitcher Rebbe sent Rabbi Moishe Moskovitz and his family to revive and rekindle the Jewish spirit in the city. In the past nine years, Kharkov has witnessed what can only be called a miracle - as it has now become a vibrant Jewish community.
JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
In 1992 Rabbi Moskovitz opened a Jewish Day school from 1st-3rd grades - with 100 students. This year the school boasts an enrollment of 500 from 1st - 11th grades. The school gives children, in addition to a high standard of secular studies, daily classes of Ivrit, Jewish tradition and Jewish history. The warm and caring Jewish environment in the school gives every student a pride of his heritage and a strong Jewish identity. The school has buses to bring the students from all over the city and serves two kosher meals daily (which for many children is unfortunately, their only meal ). The school is a strong force in the Jewish community and a vital link to Judaism for all the students and their parents.
KINDERGARTEN
The Jewish kindergarten has over 80 children from 2-6 years old. Through song and games the young children gain a love for their heritage and traditions. The parents are part of an active program which enables them to also gain an appreciation of the values that are being imbued in their children.
ADULT AND JEWISH EDUCATION PROGRAMS
- For students there is a Torah Institute - which is a part time program of in-depth Torah classes. The students receive a small stipend.
- For high school students who want a more intensive Jewish program, there is a Yeshiva option - learning half day Jewish studies and half day secular studies. Many of these young boys and girls become active in the community and further their studies in religious institutions in Israel.
- Adult education - a range of options is available for all ages - who are interested in classes - ranging from the weekly Torah portion to in-depth Talmud classes.
- Family shabbatons - give the whole family unit a unique opportunity to experience Judaism together in a warm atmosphere with other Jewish families. Each shabbaton has around 100 people and is set in a beautiful campsite on the outskirts of the city.
SUMMER CAMP
For 6 weeks every Summer over 200 boys and 200 girls enjoy overnight camp - gaining an unforgettable experience in living their traditions and heritage. The songs, the fun activities, the bonfires and spirit of camp have an influence on a child for years to come. We see children coming into camp as Lena and Alexei and leaving as Leah and Avraham.
FESTIVAL PROGRAMS
- 12 tons of matzah are distributed every Pesach
- Communal sedarim for over 2000 people
- Purim carnivals(this year over 5000 people came to a Purim program in the Kharkov circus and received Mishloach Manot)
- Chanukah concerts and moreŠ
HUMANITARIAN HELP
Help is offered to the needy in the form of medicines, clothes, meals and financial help.
SYNAGOGUE
After being confiscated by the communists for over 50 years and used as a sports complex - the synagogue was returned to the Jewish community in 1990. This year Rabbi Moskovitz finally received full government permission to renovate and restore the entire synagogue. The synagogue is one of the largest in Europe and as well as the actual synagogue hall(with 1000 places), the project includes a community center with a large kitchen and dining room, computer class, games and sports room,library etc. The entire renovation will cost around $2 million - and there are numerous options for dedications. For more information about the synagogue project please contact Rabbi Moskovitz - via email / fax / phone.