Rabbi Focused on Jewish Outreach

Clinton, NJ — As founder of Chabad of Hunterdon County, Rabbi Eli Kornfeld said he is living his goal of working to enrich the lives of Jewish people.

The Clinton-based Chabad just celebrated its fourth anniversary, and Kornfeld said the community’s response continues to inspire him to develop outreach programs including religious services, adult education, women and mens’ groups, Hebrew school and “family building” programs.

“Our programs are a nice complement to what families and individuals are already doing, or a start to learning about Judaism,” he said.

Kornfeld said families that belong to a synagogue also can benefit from Chabad.

“Unlike traditional synagogues, there are no committees, and you don’t have to join our congregation; involvement is totally voluntary at all times,” he said.

“Our goal is to reach out to the local community and offer programs and education.”

Kornfeld was raised in Seattle, where his father serves as educational director of Chabad of Greater Seattle. He said that growing up in the environment of Chabad outreach profoundly affected his dreams and goals.

Kornfeld came from Seattle to study and received his rabbinic ordination at the Rabbinical College of America in Morristown. He later worked as a professor there, and he started Chabad of Hunterdon County four years later.

“Hunterdon County reminds me a lot of Seattle,” he said. “The rolling hills and the beautiful surroundings are a wonderful place to raise a family.”

He said his wife, Rachel, assists him with programming, and both are committed to spreading the knowledge of Chabad in Hunterdon County.

“Hunterdon County has a vibrant Jewish community, and I am so pleased that our outreach here has grown and is continuing to grow,” he said