There are many Jews in Coz -- from "closet" Jews to declared but non-practicing to the fully orthodox -- from all over the world -- teachers, real estate agents, health professionals, retail & wholesale business people, folks who work in the hospitality industry and other tourist-related activities as well as many retirees. There's been a small synagogue in Coz for quite a while -- it's well hidden in the north part of town and most people used to find it only by accident. Around the time of Passover in 2009, the Chabad "crew" arrived in Coz to rejuvenate and unite the community. They've channeled enormous amounts of energy into raising awareness, opening lines of communication, providing diverse activities to attract participation, and finding resources to maintain these programs and develop new ones. These are big-hearted people who accept all and who are honestly interested in each individual. As examples of some new things that have happened on the island, Chabad succeeded in placing a Menorah on the malecon for Chanukah 2009 -- a very big deal with a high likelihood of becoming tradition! They host a multilingual (Hebrew, Spanish, English & French) first night of Passover dinner that draws about 150 people. This year's Purim party was a blast with everyone including the Rabbis dressed in costume, firecrackers drowning out Haman's name, a huge buffet, and a DJ hosting dancing and contests. Their Kosher restaurant & store on the second level of the Forum Shops at Calle 10 Norte and Melgar will be an interesting stop for some visitors. This is the only place in Coz where Kosher meals are served and there's usually someone there to describe what Jewish life is like on a Mexican-Caribbean rock.The store stocks Kosher meat and other foods, Israeli candy & products, and many other items that can't be obtained elsewhere on the island. Services are held every morning and evening at the synagogue on Calle 12 Norte between Melgar and Ave. 5. On Friday nights, services are followed by a community dinner -- gratis, of course. Every Jewish holiday is observed or celebrated. ALL events are OPEN TO ALL if any of you would like to attend. Contact Info: Cozumel Chabad House, Calle 12 Norte (entre Av. Rafael Melgar y 5ta Av. Norte) Rabbi David (Dudi) Caplin, Tel: 52-1-987-111-9715 , Email: ChabadCozumel@gmail.com
