Frequently Asked Questions

Feel free to reach out to Rabbi Levi if you have any other questions not addressed here or need clarification.

What is Chabad?

Chabad is a philosophy, a movement, and an organization. It is one of the most dynamic forces in Jewish life today, with over 3,500 centers in 100 countries dedicated to the welfare of the Jewish people worldwide.

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Are Chabad programs exclusively for Orthodox Jews?

Chabad is welcoming and non-judgmental, and our programs are open to all Jews. In fact, most people who attend Chabad programs are not Orthodox. Chabad avoids labels as they can create barriers between people. The teachings of Chabad are infused with the joy and warmth of Chassidic tradition, but no level of observance is required to participate.

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Is Chabad Amelia Island funded by its headquarters in New York?

No. Each Chabad center is independently funded by the community it serves. We do not receive financial support from Chabad headquarters in New York, nor do we send funds there. All donations remain in our local community.

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Where is your Shul/Synagogue located?

We are located at 5472 1st Coast Hwy, Suite 11 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034.

Plans are already in place for a new building to serve as the Jewish center of Amelia Island & Nassau County! Reach out for more information!

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What services and programs do you offer?

We offer a variety of programs, including:

  • Classes – We are pleased to offer two regular classes, visit our Torah study page for more information.
  • Shabbat Community Dinners – Enjoy a warm, traditional Shabbat experience with great food and song.
  • Shabbat Experience @ Chabad - Saturday morning prayers, Torah reading, and Kiddush luncheon.
  • Shabbat meals at the Rabbi & Rebbetzin's home
  • Holiday Programs – Grand Chanukah celebrations, Passover Seders, Purim celebrations, and much more.
  • One-on-One Learning with the Rabbi
  • Men's Brunch - Monthly Kosher BLT (Bagels, Lox & Tefillin) on Sunday morning.
  • Women's Jewish Circle – Events and gatherings for women in the community. Reach out to Mindy for more information - 305.842.1037
  • Youth Programs/Hebrew School – Planned for the future as our community grows.
  • Services/Prayers/Minyanim – Primarily on Shabbat and holidays, with more frequent services planned as we grow.
  • Educational Lectures - Inspiring lectures from notable figures in the Jewish world.

If there is any programming that you would like to see here in Amelia Island, please don't hesitate to reach out!

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Do you provide hospital visitation services?

Yes. Rabbi Levi visits patients at Hospitals and care centers in Nassau County. Contact us to arrange a visit.

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Is there kosher food in Amelia Island?

While there is no Kosher restaurant or take-out options (currently) in Amelia Island, a variety of kosher-certified items can be found locally in Fernandina Beach:

Grocery Stores:

  • Publix (1421 Sadler Rd) – Pas Yisroel kosher bagels, a basic selection of kosher wines, a well-stocked kosher freezer section with burger patties, Empire chicken, ground beef, chicken nuggets, and a selection of pre-cooked meals. There is also a great selection of kosher dry goods, including snacks, matzah, gefilte fish, and more.
  • Harris Teeter (4800 1st Coast Hwy) – Small kosher sections with non-perishable products, grape juice.
  • In Jacksonville, approximately 45-60 minutes away there are a number of stores with large Kosher selections including Winn Dixie in Mandarin (11700 San Jose Blvd #12, Jacksonville, FL 32223), Publix in Mandarin (11406 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223), and Trader Joe's in Mandarin (11112 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223)

Kosher Restaurants & Catering:

  • The closest kosher restaurants are in Jacksonville, approximately 45-60 minutes away, depending on traffic.
  • Gili's Kosher Kitchen in Downtown Jacksonville - Gili's Kitchen offers a wide variety of cosine from around the world. Gili's also offers Kosher catering. Gili's is Kosher and Pas Yisroel under the supervision of Rabbi Kahanov of Chabad of NE Florida and Gesher K. (126 W Adams St # 102, Jacksonville, FL 32202, 904.475.1400 giliskitchen.com)
  • Ahava Cafe in Chabad of the Southside - A boutique dining spot for breakfast or lunch, serving sandwiches, pastries, coffee, smoothies and more. Each order is freshly prepared. Dine-in service at our Chabad center, or packed to-go. Strictly kosher, cholov yisroel and pas yisroel. At and under the Kosher supervision of Chabad of Jacksonvile Town Center. (11271 Alumni Way Jacksonville, FL 32246, AHAVA.cafe, 904.624.1770)
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Is there a weekday or Shabbos Minyan?

There is no daily Minyan at the moment in Amelia Island. There is a daily Minyan at Chabad in Jacksonville. Visit their website here for more information.

Currently, we have a weekly Shabbat minyan at the Chabad Jewish Center of Amelia Island. Email [email protected] for more details. 

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Where should I stay if I want to be within walking distance of Chabad for Shabbos?

Nearby hotels include:

  • The Ritz Carlton - About a 30-minute walk from Chabad.
  • The Omni Resort - About 45 minute walk from Chabad
  • Summer Beach - About a 15-minute walk from Chabad.
  • There are a number of Airbnb's that are walking distance to Chabad.
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I'm considering relocating to Amelia Island. What do I need to know?

That's great! Amelia Island is a beautiful place to live, as I'm sure you already know! Rabbi Levi is happy to answer all your questions and tell you all about our welcoming community. Please email [email protected] for more information.

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Do you offer Bar/Bat Mitzvah lessons and celebrations?

Yes, we do.

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Can I request a Mezuzah for my home or business?

Yes. We are pleased to offer a free Mezuzah to anybody in Nassau County who does not yet have a Mezuzah. Additional Mezuzahs are also available for purchase.

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Do you offer Kaddish or Yahrzeit services?

We can definitely help you to get it done.

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Can I schedule a private meeting with the Rabbi for guidance or counseling?

Yes, please email [email protected] to request a meeting with the Rabbi or the Rebbetzin.

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Are there volunteer opportunities available?

Yes! We have many opportunities, including helping seniors and delivering holiday packages.

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Do you provide Jewish wedding services?

Yes, Rabbi Levi and Mindy Katz offer both individual and joint lessons on the important Jewish perspective on marriage. Rabbi Katz is also available to officiate at your wedding to ensure it will be a meaningful and beautiful experience for you and your guests.

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Is there a Mikvah nearby?

No, there is no local Mikvah in Amelia Island. However, there is a Mikvah in Jacksonville just an hour away. Visit their website here for more details. 

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Do you offer children's programs?

Yes! Please reach out for more information. 

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Do you offer Tefillin wrapping services?

Yes, reach out to arrange.

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How can I join a Torah study group?

We have two regular classes and one-on-one learning. Contact the Rabbi for more details.

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Are there community social events?

Yes, we have a Men's and Women's Club once a month, along with other events.

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Can Chabad help with Jewish burial services?

Yes. Click here to learn about Jewish Burial in Amelia Island. 

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Do you have a lending library?

It's being developed. Let us know if you'd like to donate books or funds.

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Is there an Eruv in Amelia Island?
Do you offer services for seniors?

Yes, including visitations, meals, and more.

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For any other inquiries, feel free to reach out!

Chabad of Amelia Island & Nassau County

[email protected]