Welcome to Chabad Moldova!
Nestled in the heart of Kishinev and its surrounding cities, Chabad Moldova stands as a vibrant center of Jewish life, rising proudly from a history marked by war, persecution, and oppression. The revival of our community is owed in great part to the visionary leadership of Rabbi Zalman Abelsky zt”l and his wife, Leah. Sent by the Lubavitcher Rebbe in 1990, Rabbi Abelsky led the effort to restore Jewish life in Moldova after the devastation of World War II and decades of communist repression, addressing both spiritual and material needs.
Despite significant emigration to Israel and other Western countries, approximately 6,000 Jews remain in Moldova, many eager to reconnect with their heritage. Since our establishment in 1990, Chabad Moldova has remained devoted to serving this population, especially those facing economic hardship and social isolation, including the elderly.
Over the years, Chabad Moldova has flourished, warmly embracing Jews from all backgrounds while providing essential spiritual guidance and practical support. Following Rabbi Zalman Abelsky’s passing in 2014, his son Rabbi Zushe assumed leadership alongside Rabbi Mendel Axelrod, our esteemed Chief Rabbi.
Today, five Chabad shluchim families are actively serving throughout Moldova:
- Rabbi Zushe and Chaya Abelsky
- Rabbi Mendel and Chaya Mushka Axelrod
- Rabbi Shmuel and Chaya Zalmanov in Kishinev
- Rabbi Mendel and Leah Gotsel in Bender and Tiraspol
- Rabbi Shneur Zalman and Chana Tipenbron, serving communities across Moldova
Our outreach extends to 18 communities nationwide, caring for both large and small populations alike.
In 2022, during the war between Russia and Ukraine, Chabad Moldova played a vital role in assisting refugees by providing shelter, food, and medical aid as needed.
We are deeply grateful for the support of organizations such as Friends of Kishinev Jewry, the Global Jewish Relief Network, FJC, and the Rabbinical Centre of Europe (RCE), all of whom actively assist us in our mission.
Join us on this journey of rediscovery, connection, and community-building as we continue to grow, strengthen, and thrive together.