Chai Center - Chabad of Wilmette

What is the Chai Center?

• Is the Chai Center a synagogue, school or an outreach organization?
• Does it service the religious or non-religious community?
• Who are the people at the Chai Center?
• Are they Ultra-orthodox?
• Is the Chai Center for my family and me?

The Chai Center is your local branch of Chabad Lubavitch International.

Acceptance of every Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, age or financial status, is the guiding force of the Chabad movement. Chabad helps Jews appreciate their roots and identify proudly with their Judaism.

We would like to introduce you to the Chai Center - Chabad of Wilmette and our community programs.

A Synagogue for Every Jew

Our Synagogue is open to members and non-members alike. We conduct services in a warm and casual atmosphere. Many of those who attend our services do not read Hebrew, yet everyone feels at home. The prayers are sincere and inspiring, enhanced by the special spirit of joy and song.

Children play an integral role at the Chai Center, and have their own special children's service.

Learning for Every Jew

The Chai Center is a learning center for Jews coming from all walks of life and of all denominations. Indeed, everyone feels comfortable with the style and approach. The programs do not require any membership or prior affiliation.

Our adult education program includes weekly ongoing Torah classes, guest speakers and renowned lecturers.

The Chai Center offers its own Hebrew School and Hebrew High School - The Wilmette Community Hebrew School - a place where the joys, values and traditions of Judaism are brought vividly to life. This experience represents a positive, cheerful and enjoyable chapter of the child's and young adult’s maturing process. Our goal is for the children to be left with deeply rooted feelings of pride and affection for their Jewish heritage.

The Chai Center is an affiliate of the internationally reputed JLI - The Jewish Learning Institute. The JLI is a unique adult education program where one can acquire the essentials of Jewish literacy, regardless of one’s background or level of observance. It is accepting, interactive, accessible, and academically challenging. The JLI courses uncover timeless wisdom, equipped with the modern tools of today - comprehensive textbooks & materials, streamlined curriculum and a professional multi-media presentation - prepared by international experts in the field of adult Jewish education. You commit to any of the JLI courses The JLI commits to being the most professional institute for adult Jewish studies today.

Our Unique Rabbi & Rebbetzin

Rabbi Dovid and Rivke Flinkenstein came to Wilmette in the summer of 1992 and established the Chai Center imbued with Chabad’s warm, enthusiastic and non-judgmental approach to all Jews.

They are a team, husband and wife. Dovid and Rivke offer an open and sincere setting to discuss, explore and experience Judaism and all of life's dynamics.

By taking a personal interest in every Jewish man, woman and child, the Flinkensteins' warmth and vitality adds a special dimension to the North Shore Community.

All in the Family

Family and social activities are a central part of the Chai Center. Our new “Mommy & Me with a Jewish Twist” encourages socialization and bonding between parents and child while exploring the child’s world through multi-sensory experiences that stimulate emerging language and motor development,

Our many other family oriented  programs including "Chanukah on Ice", Children’s Model Shofar Factory, a Lag B'Omer Bon Fire & Cookout or a Story time with the Rabbi , foster a unique community awareness and special appreciation of Judaism.

Come and Meet Us

There are no prerequisites for being involved with the Chai Center. Whether you are affiliated or not, have much Jewish training or none, you are always welcome to try one or all of our programs. We are here to serve and help you and your family.   

Stop in and get to know us.