Chabad of Nanaimo & Central Vancouver Island

Name: Chabad of Nanaimo & Central Vancouver Island
Address: Nanaimo, British Columbia

A Spark of Yiddishkeit in the Harbour City

Location: Nanaimo, British Columbia

Organizer: Chabad of Nanaimo

About

Established in 2015 by Rabbi Bentzi and Blumie Shemtov, Chabad of Nanaimo is the central hub for Jewish life in Central Vancouver Island. We provide a variety of educational, religious, and social services, including weekly Shabbat services, holiday celebrations, and adult education classes. Strategically located in North Nanaimo, we serve the communities of Lantzville, Nanoose Bay, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach. Our center offers a warm and welcoming environment for residents and travelers alike.

About the provider

Since its founding in 2015, Chabad of Nanaimo has sparked a revival of Jewish life in the region. Founded with the encouragement of Rabbi Meir Kaplan (Victoria), the Shemtovs have built a vibrant community where there was previously no Orthodox presence, hosting hundreds for holiday events like public Menorah lightings.

Kashrut & dining

Kashrut authority: fixed · fixed

Location

Address: 5450 Oceanview Terrace, Nanaimo, BC V9V 1G7, Canada

Getting there

Located in a beautiful residential area in North Nanaimo with views of the ocean. The center is easily accessible by car with plenty of local street parking for visitors.

Contact

Organizer: Chabad of Nanaimo (Rabbi Bentzi Shemtov)
Location: Nanaimo
Phone: +1 250-797-7877
WhatsApp: +1 250-797-7877
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.jewishnanaimo.com/

Explore More

About this listing

Chabad of Nanaimo & Central Vancouver Island serves as the primary resource for Jewish life and religious services in the Harbour City and its surrounding regions. Established in 2015 by Rabbi Bentzi and Blumie Shemtov, this center was the first Orthodox presence in the area, filling a vital need for residents and visitors alike.

Strategically located in North Nanaimo, the organization acts as a communal anchor for those seeking a connection to Yiddishkeit while traveling through or living on Vancouver Island. The center is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment where individuals can engage with their heritage through various religious and social frameworks.

What to expect

Visitors to this Chabad house can expect a comprehensive range of services designed to facilitate Jewish practice. Weekly Shabbat services provide an opportunity for communal prayer and reflection, while holiday celebrations and public events, such as Menorah lightings, bring together the local community throughout the year.

Educational programming is a core component of the services offered. Adult education classes and one-on-one learning sessions are available for those looking to deepen their understanding of Torah and Jewish tradition. For families and travelers, the Shemtovs offer guidance on local Jewish infrastructure and support for religious needs in a region where such resources were historically limited.

The service area extends beyond the city limits of Nanaimo to include Lantzville, Nanoose Bay, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach. Travelers planning a visit to Central Vancouver Island are encouraged to reach out to the center for information regarding prayer times, kosher resources, and community events to ensure their religious needs are met during their stay.

Frequently asked questions

What areas does Chabad of Nanaimo serve?

The center supports community members and visitors across Central Vancouver Island, including Lantzville, Nanoose Bay, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach.

Are kosher meals available for travelers?

While Chabad provides resources and community support, it is always recommended to contact the Rabbi in advance regarding the availability of kosher supplies or communal meals during your visit.

Is the center open to tourists and business travelers?

Yes, the center welcomes all Jewish visitors regardless of affiliation or level of observance, providing a space for prayer, learning, and connection.