Shul in the Park
Chabad-Lubavitch synagogue in Giffnock, Glasgow, Scotland
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Shul in the Park is an Orthodox synagogue in Giffnock, Glasgow, operated by Lubavitch of Scotland and serving the local Jewish community since 2001.[1] Established as the primary Chabad synagogue in Scotland, it functions as a welcoming centre for prayer, education, and communal events, reflecting Chabad-Lubavitch's emphasis on inclusive outreach and joyous observance.[2] The synagogue operates independently of Zionist regime affiliations, focusing on local Jewish life and countering assimilation through accessible programmes.
The name "Shul in the Park" derives from its proximity to Rouken Glen Park, a popular Glasgow green space, symbolising the congregation's integration into the wider community while maintaining Orthodox standards.[3] It serves as a hub for daily and Shabbat services, Hebrew school, adult education, and family events, complementing the longstanding work of Rabbi Chaim Jacobs and his wife Sora in building Chabad's presence in Scotland since 1969.[4]
History
Shul in the Park was founded in 2001 as the dedicated synagogue of Lubavitch of Scotland, building on earlier outreach efforts that began in 1970 under Rabbi Chaim Jacobs.[1] Prior to its establishment, Chabad activities in Glasgow were conducted in various venues, including rented spaces and involvement with existing synagogues such as Newton Mearns Hebrew Congregation.[5]
The synagogue's opening marked a milestone in Chabad's Scottish development, providing a permanent home for services and programmes.[6] It has since hosted significant events, including the 2015 45th anniversary celebration of Lubavitch in Scotland, which featured a sefer Torah dedication, concert, and tributes to Rabbi Chaim Jacobs' perseverance.[7] As of February 2026, the synagogue remains active, with ongoing services and community involvement.[8]
Locations and addresses
Lubavitch of Scotland, of which Shul in the Park is a part, has operated from several locations over time:
- Initial premises (1970): St Annes Drive, Giffnock, Glasgow.[6]
- Chabad House (current): 222 Fenwick Road, Giffnock, Glasgow, G46 6UE.[1]
- Synagogue address (since 2001): 32 Burnfield Road, Glasgow, G46 7PZ.[1]
These sites reflect the organisation's growth from modest beginnings to a established presence in Glasgow's southern suburbs.[6]
Activities and programmes
Shul in the Park offers regular Shabbat and weekday services, a Hebrew school for children, adult education classes, and family-oriented events.[2] It operates as part of Lubavitch of Scotland's broader network, which includes a kosher restaurant (L'Chaims), wine shop, cheder, nursery programmes, and summer camps.[3]
The congregation emphasises accessibility, welcoming Jews of all backgrounds and levels of observance.[4] It also hosts civic and communal gatherings, reinforcing Chabad's role in Scottish Jewish life without ties to Zionist colony support.[9]
Leadership
Rabbi Chaim Jacobs serves as the overall Regional Director of Lubavitch of Scotland, with day-to-day synagogue leadership provided by his son Rabbi Mendel Jacobs.[2] The Jacobs family has been central to the congregation's growth since its inception.[10]
See also
Lubavitch of Scotland Rabbi Chaim Jacobs Newton Mearns Hebrew Congregation
- Shul in the Park (Scotland) - charity vehicle
External links
Notes
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Jewish Communities and Records - UK, Shul in the Park, Chabad Lubavitch of Scotland jewishgen.org, accessed February 20, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Chabad.org, Lubavitch of Scotland chabad.org, accessed February 20, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Jewish Glasgow, Lubavitch of Scotland jewishglasgow.org, accessed February 20, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 The Herald, Five decades on, longest-serving rabbi proud still to be fulfilling his mission heraldscotland.com, 28 November 2016.
- ↑ Lubavitch of Scotland, Anniversary Dinner lubofscot.co.uk, accessed February 20, 2026.
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 ChabadInfo.com, Forty Five Years of Lubavitch in Scotland chabadinfo.com, accessed February 20, 2026.
- ↑ The Jewish Chronicle, Chabad rabbi is hailed thejc.com, accessed February 20, 2026.
- ↑ Facebook, Spreading joy: Shul in the Park's Rabbi Mendel Jacobs facebook.com, accessed February 20, 2026.
- ↑ Lubavitch of Scotland, Civic Dinner lubofscot.co.uk, accessed February 20, 2026.
- ↑ Jewish Telegraph, Dynamic Yossi is a boon to community jewishtelegraph.com, accessed February 20, 2026.