New Shluchim to Connecticut

Shelton Herald

Rabbi Shneur and Leah Brook (nee Olidort) have founded the Chabad Center of Shelton-Monroe in their Soundview Avenue home.

Rabbi Shneur Brook and his wife, Leah, natives of the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn, N.Y., have planted roots on Soundview Avenue and, right out of their home, created the Chabad of Shelton-Monroe — all with an eye toward meeting a need that the couple sees the area lacking.

“What we found is that the Shelton, Monroe area had no place for Jews to worship, to come together,” said Shneur, who moved to the city just less than a month ago. “But we’ve only been here a few weeks, and we have already made so many connections.”

Shneur, from a family in which he is one of 15 children, has a sister operating a Chabad in Fairfield, and it was through her that the Brooks learned that there was a strong contingent of Jewish families in the area who have to travel, some to his sister in Fairfield, to find a place to gather with others of their faith.

“We offer the opportunity for them to stay local,” said Shneur.

And the Brook’s Soundview Avenue home is the base of operations at this point. The couple has already hosted Chabad meals with small groups at their home, which will also act as the location for a variety of community and social services.

The Brooks said the Chabad of Shelton-Monroe will be available for newborn care/baby naming; bar/bat mitzvah instruction; marriage prep; hospital and senior visitation; and funeral services as well as offering youth and adult educational programs. For the Jewish year, ​Shneur said that the center will offer Shabbat dinners and services; high holiday services; holiday events and learning; and synagogue.

After having met so many Jewish families in the Shelton-Monroe area, the Brooks have already planned their first major event — a menorah lighting titled Light Up Our Town on Thursday, Dec. 6, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Huntington Green.

“We are here to stay,” said Shneur, adding that when the couples move to an area to start a Chabad center, it always considered a long-term commitment. “We are here to establish a Jewish center and raise Jewish awareness.”

“Our home is always open to every Jew,” said Leah, “here to serve you with classes, events, Shabbat and holiday meals and services, youth programs, women’s circle, and so much more.”

For more information on Chabad of Shelton-Monroe, visit jewishshelton.com