Jewish Women’s Circle Comes to Clay

Shaina Feldman grew up the daughter of a Rabbi, in a Chabad community. Today she is the wife of Rabbi Shmuly Feldman, working together in an outreach to Jews in Clay County, Florida. “We want to build the Jewish community here,” she said.

Following the example set by Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the seventh leader in the Chabad-Lubavitch dynasty, the Feldmans desire to stir the conscience and spiritual awakening of the Jewish religion and culture.

Like the “Rebbe,” the Feldmans are striving to bring unity, concentrating on Jewish persons on our side of the St. Johns River, acknowledging that everyone is unique and important.

Building a Jewish community here is their objective. As their Mission Statement reads, their goal is “to strengthen the Jewish Community in Clay County by promoting Jewish pride, study and celebration; to provide for the spiritual needs of all Jews in the community – regardless of their background or affiliation; to establish a warm and traditional community center where everyone is made to feel welcome and comfortable.”

Since the Feldmans moved to Fleming Island in April they have hosted several events for Clay County Jews. “We want to study and celebrate together,” Shaina said.

The Jewish Women’s Circle is for Jewish women of all ages and backgrounds. They meet together to learn, laugh and refresh through meaningful discussions, activities and socializing.

Shaina will soon start a Mommy and Me gathering for mothers and their children ages zero to three years.

Together the Feldmans host a weekly Torah class. They explore and discuss significant insights to the stories and lessons of the Torah. “Learn to live your life today with the history of the past,” Rabbi Feldman said. “Bring along your challenges and insights and be prepared to delve into the history with the spirit of the future!”

For a more one-on-one study, they have classes tailor made for the individual. Clay County Jews can choose a topic and go at their own pace with Rabbi Shmuly or Shaina. They are also available for a “lunch ‘n’ learn” time at your office.

The Feldmans invite local Jews interested in learning the “hows” and “whys” of the Jewish holidays to contact them. The holidays will be studied and can be shared together. They recently enjoyed a Passover Seder with 15 other people.

The Feldmans will be starting weekly Shabbat prayer services in Fleming Island. They hope to hold High Holiday Services as well.

“We want people in Clay County to know that Chabad is here; what’s it’s all about, regardless of their background, affiliation, or level of involvement,” Shaina added. “We want to strengthen and enhance the Jewish life; to strengthen Jewish identity, unity and commitment.”

Like the Rebbe, the Feldmans see a wealth of potential in each person. They reflect the message he conveyed: “You are Divinely gifted with enormous strength and energy – actualize it!”