30 years ago, Rabbi Yosef and Nechama Kantor embarked on a journey to Thailand.
Little did they know how profound an impact this journey would have. Today, there are 12+ institutions under Chabad of Thailand’s name. Serving local community members, thousands of young Israeli backpackers, and travelers of all backgrounds, Rabbi Kantor and his colleagues care for the needs of all who pass through their doors 24/7.
More Than Just a Visit: The Chabad of Thailand Embrace
The truth is, it’s never just “passing through.” The Chabad of Thailand ‘embrace’ stays with each visitor for an entire lifetime. It’s more than just a warm welcome or a delicious Shabbos meal. It’s the feeling of home — the unwavering support and guidance of the shluchim, the camaraderie among visitors, and the comforting feelings of acceptance and belonging. Wherever their journey takes them next, the warmth of Chabad of Thailand remains with them for years to come.
Celebrating 30 Years: A Night to Remember
Last night, Chabad of Thailand’s team and friends and supporters celebrated this remarkable 30-year milestone with a beautiful gala dinner. The event transported them back to Rabbi Kantor’s first visit to Thailand, 30 years ago. As each additional shliach joined the mission, an empire of outreach began to form in Eastern Asia. Over time, the Chabad of Thailand ‘backpackers branches‘ became the model of how to create a ‘home away from home’ for the thousands of young post army Israelis seeking adventure but open to a Jewish experience .
A Call to Action: Fueling the Future
Fueled by the tremendous energy of 30 years of incredible growth and impact, Chabad of Thailand ended the event by introducing a $30 million capital campaign to be split between the building needs of the 12 locations.
The Zerner Campus, the ‘heart of Jewish Thailand’s Jewish center, will include Beth Elisheva Synagogue and the Bangkok community. One location will host and support all Jewish life events from Shabbat and holiday celebrations, and family programming and education.
Chabad of Phuket and Koh Samui’s expansion plans will make space for the hundreds of visitors joining each Shabbat. Pai’s campaign includes building the only mikvah for miles and miles. Both Chabad Chiang Mai and Koh Phangan own land and are ready to build permanent homes. A new kitchen logistics center in Bangkok, Chani’s Kitchen, will expand kosher food production for the entire country.
Additionally plans for six additional Chabad houses promise to extend the reach of Yiddishkeit in Thailand, bringing traveling souls closer to their heritage.
Join the Embrace: Supporting Chabad of Thailand’s Future
As Rabbi Kantor shared, “For the past 30 years, Chabad of Thailand has offered a warm and welcoming embrace to hundreds of thousands of Yidden (Jews). Today, we ask, can you give us a hug?”
Visit soulofthailand.com, to donate and be a part of Chabad of Thailand’s mission. Your support builds a bright future for all Jews in Thailand.
GO RABBI YOSEF AND NECHAMA DINA!!
👏👏👏
Spectacular!!!! Rabbi and Rebbitzen Kantor are such incredible shluchim!!!!Lots of Hatzlocho!