Founders of Chabad of Playa del Carmen
Welcome to Chabad of Playa del Carmen
Your Jewish home in the heart of the Riviera Maya
For more than fifteen years, Chabad of Playa del Carmen has welcomed thousands of Jewish travelers and residents from around the world.
Whether you are visiting on vacation, traveling for business, or living in the region, you will find here a warm community, daily services, Shabbat and holiday meals, religious services, practical guidance, and a team always happy to welcome you personally.
Our mission is simple: to help every Jew live proudly and fully connected to their Jewish identity, wherever they may be, and to make Playa del Carmen a true Jewish home.
Our Story
The journey of Rabbi Mendel Goldberg reflects leadership, global experience, and a deep commitment to Jewish continuity. Raised in France, he pursued advanced rabbinical studies in Brunoy, Kfar Chabad, Jerusalem, and New York, before being entrusted with missions to Jewish communities across Africa, Europe, and the South Pacific. These experiences shaped a vision rooted in adaptability, service, and a deep understanding of Jewish communities around the world.
Rebbetzin Chaya Goldberg, raised in Crown Heights, New York, grew up at the heart of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. As the daughter of the Director of the International Conference of Shluchim, she was exposed from a young age to global Jewish leadership and the world of Shlichus. After her studies, she served as an educator in Shanghai, China, and later directed a Jewish preschool in Philadelphia, dedicating her energy to education and community building.
After marrying in New York, Rabbi Mendel and Chaya chose to establish their Shlichus in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
In 2010, they relocated with their young family and began their mission with a small minyan in their living room.
Through vision, dedication, and the support of many friends and partners, that small beginning has grown into a vibrant Jewish center serving local residents and thousands of visitors every year.
Today
Chabad of Playa del Carmen has become a true center of Jewish life in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
- Daily and Shabbat services
- Shabbat and holiday meals
- Women’s Mikvah
- Hospitality for travelers
- Torah classes
- Jewish education for children and adults
- Spiritual guidance
- Kosher information
- Community services
- Events throughout the year
Our Vision
Rabbi Mendel and Chaya Goldberg continue to expand Jewish life in Playa del Carmen with a clear vision for the future.
Their goal is to build a strong, welcoming, and lasting Jewish community where every Jew who walks through the doors of Chabad can find a place to pray, learn, celebrate, connect, and feel at home.
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