Rabbi & Mrs. Zev Stiefel are the dynamic and pivotal force behind Chabad of Central Slovakia. Their extensive experience in outreach, education, and social services has made them ideally suited to their goal of providing support to Jews in Slovakia, whether a visitor or a resident, and aiding them in the connections to their heritage and culture.
Rabbi Stiefel was born in Atlanta, Georgia, but spent his youth and early teens in Montreal. He is a graduate of Rabbinical College of America, receiving Smicha (Rabbinical Ordination) from prominent Rabbis worldwide, including from Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu (Chief Rabbi of Israel).
Prior to his Rabbinical ordination, Rabbi Stiefel worked in the field of education in London, England; Montreal, Canada; and New York. He also visited many small communities as a Rabbinical student during holiday periods and summer months. In addition, Rabbi Stiefel has wide experience working with youth (as a counselor in summer camps, pioneer of innovative teen programs etc.) as well as adults.
Rabbi Stiefel is an accomplished, professional Chazzan (Cantor), having led High Holy Day services in prestigious communities in New York, California, and Montreal. He is in great demand across Europe as a Cantor and concert artiste specializing in traditional Jewish liturgy.
Mrs. Bina Stiefel (nee Lewis) was born in Manchester, UK, but raised in New York. She is a graduate of Bais Rivkah High School and Bournemouth Teacher’s Seminary and is an accomplished educator in her own right. She has taught school in such diverse communities as Anchorage, Alaska; Greenwich, Connecticut; and Bratislava, Slovakia, and specializes in lecturing on women’s issues and the role of the Modern Jewish Woman. In addition, Bina is widely known for her culinary expertise and is the creator of the meals offered by Chabad of Central Slovakia.
In September, 2004, Rabbi & Mrs. Stiefel and baby daughter Mushka moved to Bratislava, Slovakia from the United States. There, the Stiefels quickly established themselves as strong conduits between the Israeli, student, & tourist communities and Jewish life in Slovakia. Since moving to Slovakia, the Stiefels have been blessed with 7 more beautiful children - all born in Slovakia!
In October 2007, with the full support and encouragement of Chabad’s Head Shliach, the Central Union of Jewish Communities of Slovakia, and the Israeli Chambers of Commerce of Slovakia, the Stiefels moved to Piešťany to establish Slovakia’s second Chabad House serving the needs of the small communities, students, and the ever-increasing Jewish tourist population.
The Stiefels are fluent in English, Hebrew, and Yiddish, and also speak Slovak. They see themselves as facilitators to all Jews, whether residents or not. They are available to provide assistance in all matters, from arranging Kosher food & Shabbat or Holiday services to translating in a hospital for an Israeli patient.
Piešťany is a delightful town approximately 80 kilometers from Bratislava and under 2 hours from Vienna. It is world renowned for its healing spas and extensive sporting and nature facilities. Shabbat and Holiday services take place on the spa island and Shabbat meals are often held in various hotels or at the Stiefel home.
Individual meals may be ordered on an “as-needed” basis; choose from a delicious array of gourmet, home-cooked entrees, sides, and desserts, all under the highest Rabbinical supervision. A minimum of 48 hours notice is required. Holiday & Shabbat meals require advance, pre-paid registration. Please click on Kosher Catering to view the options. Should you desire fine Kosher wines, we are happy to accommodate you.
Please take a few minutes to visit the links on Chabad of Central Slovakia’s website to become familiar with all the amenities we have to offer. We welcome you to our lovely country, and wish you a pleasant stay.
