Sergey and his mother travel close to three hours -- each way -- for him to prepare to become Bar Mitzvah.

His devotion is impressive. Sergey’s father is not Jewish. His mother only found out recently that she’s a Jew. At first, it didn’t mean much to her. Then she heard about a Jewish youth program and thought it might be a good opportunity for her son.

One moment, one program that would literally transform his young life. Now, Sergey has brought Judaism into his parent’s lives and into their home. Even his father is proud of the commitment his son has displayed.

These stories abound throughout the Federation of Jewish Communities: The joy of discovering Judaism and the richness and wisdom of Torah. For many, like Sergey and his mom, it is a new discovery. For many others, it is a hoped-for reconnection.

The FJC helps local communities rebuild synagogues, maintain cemeteries and help the needy. We also build and maintain mikvaot, train mohels, certify kosher food, organize major holiday celebrations, train Hebrew scribes and publish and distribute religious texts in Russian across vast territories spanning 10 time zones.

Through a strategic partnership with Chabad Lubavitch and the Rohr Family Foundation, the FJC supports more than 200 permanent rabbis serving 82 communities in 12 countries. In addition to leading prayer services and performing weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs and funerals, these rabbis partner with local Jewish leaders in rebuilding the full infrastructure of their communities.

Many serve in remote locations and inhospitable climates. All take joy in leading the remarkable revival of Jewish life throughout the former Soviet Union.