About Us

Chabad of the West Sixties was founded in 2005 with a heartfelt mission: to create a warm, joyful, and spiritually alive Jewish home in the heart of Manhattan. Guided by the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, we strive to reach every Jew with genuine love, respect, and uplifting Torah wisdom.

Our community is shepherded by two dedicated families—each blessed with six wonderful children—who work closely together to bring Jewish life to every corner of the West Sixties and beyond. Their partnership is strengthened not only by family ties—Rabbi Zevi Kugel is Rebbetzin Faya Lipskier’s brother—but also by their shared roots: both Zevi and Faya grew up on the Upper West Side and know this neighborhood by heart.

Chabad of the West Sixties

Led by Rabbi Yehuda & Faya Lipskier and Family

As the anchor of our community, Chabad of the West Sixties serves as the neighborhood synagogue and central gathering place.

Rabbi Yehuda and Faya Lipskier, together with their six children, lead the daily life of the Chabad House with warmth, authenticity, and joy. Faya’s deep familiarity with the neighborhood—having grown up on the UWS—makes her leadership especially attuned to the needs, rhythm, and spirit of the local community.

They oversee:

  • Shabbat & holiday services

  • Weekly classes and Torah study

  • Life-cycle support and pastoral care

  • Community meals & celebrations

  • Programs for children, adults, and seniors

This is the heart of our community—a warm space to pray, learn, grow, and celebrate.

Chabad Pod

Led by Rabbi Zevi & Chana Kugel and Family

To meet the growing needs of our neighborhood, we established Chabad Pod—a dynamic branch that brings Jewish life beyond the walls of the synagogue.

Rabbi Zevi and Chana Kugel, also parents of six, bring vibrant energy and creativity to their work. Like his sister Faya, Rabbi Zevi grew up on the Upper West Side, giving him an intuitive feel for the local culture, families, and campus communities. This insider understanding shapes the warm, down-to-earth way the Kugels connect with students, young families, and hospital patients.

Chabad Pod focuses on:

  • Serving Jewish students at Fordham University and John Jay College

  • Visiting and assisting Jews in local hospitals

  • Creating engaging programs for young families

  • Offering pop-up classes, events, and community gatherings

INSERT PHOTO OF THE KUGELS

A Unified Mission

Though each branch serves unique needs, we work together as one team:

  • The Lipskiers nurture the spiritual and communal life of our synagogue.

  • The Kugels bring Jewish connection outward—to campuses, hospitals, and young families.

Strengthened by shared family roots and a deep, lifelong bond with the Upper West Side, we work hand-in-hand to ensure that every Jew in the West Sixties has access to community, support, and Jewish inspiration—wherever they may be on their journey.

We’re Here for You

Whether you’re looking for a synagogue, classes, campus support, family programs, pastoral care, or community connection—we’re honored to welcome you.

📞 212-706-7708
We look forward to meeting you.