First Secular Jewish Community Center Opens in Thailand as Alternative to Chabad Houses
For years, Chabad Houses worldwide have served as gathering spots for Israeli travelers and locals seeking warm meals and community. Now, the Free Secular Movement is launching the world's first "Secular House" on the island of Koh Phangan, Thailand, set to open next week. This new center will offer community gatherings, Friday night dinners, and social activities with a secular Jewish identity focus. The movement plans to expand similar centers to other global destinations in the future.
The Secular House will operate similarly to Chabad Houses but emphasize a secular Jewish identity and provide a community framework for Israelis living on or visiting the island. Planned activities include Friday dinners accompanied by discussions on secular identity, Israeli music performances, workshops on secular Jewish philosophy, community evenings with games, "living room talks" on topics like freedom and meaning, and networking events for travelers.
Elai Hershgorin-Hendin, chairman of the Free Secular Movement, told ynet that while Chabad Houses can continue to operate abroad, it is time to offer an alternative for secular Jews. He explained that those seeking traditional religious rituals like Kiddush should go to Chabad, but those wanting a Friday dinner in their own way and a place to meet other Israelis should come to the Secular House. Koh Phangan was chosen due to its large Israeli community and popularity among Israeli travelers. The movement is already considering opening additional secular houses worldwide.
Hershgorin-Hendin emphasized that the new center will also welcome non-Israelis, aiming to foster connections between peoples. During the interview, he highlighted the diversity within Jewish identity, stating, "I am secular and do not perform Kiddush. Attending a Friday dinner with Kiddush contradicts my worldview and lifestyle. I am a secular Jew, no less Jewish than a religious person, carrying the historical heritage of thousands of years of Judaism and choosing what to embrace from it."
