Rabbi Mendy Labkowski is the founder, Executive Director, and spiritual leader of the Chabad Center for Jewish Life of Buffalo. A lifelong Buffalonian, Rabbi Labkowski has dedicated his life to inspiring, educating, and uplifting the Jewish community. Known throughout the region as the Buffalo Rabbi, he combines deep Torah scholarship with hands-on community leadership to bring meaningful Jewish experiences to people of all ages and backgrounds.
From a young age, Rabbi Mendy Labkowski was drawn to Torah study, which became the foundation of his lifelong mission. He received his rabbinical ordination in 2018 from the Central Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim Lubavitz in the United States, followed by judicial ordinations from the Supreme Rabbinical Court of Israel and the Toronto Rabbinical Council. He also earned advanced rabbinic degrees equivalent to a bachelor’s and master’s level, grounding him in both traditional Torah scholarship and practical rabbinic leadership.
Beyond his formal education, Rabbi Mendy Labkowski has devoted himself to pastoral care and chaplaincy. Since 2016, he has served as a chaplain at Kaleida Health of Buffalo, providing spiritual guidance, emotional support, and end-of-life care to patients, families, and staff. He has also been on the front lines during community crises, offering grief counseling and trauma support following the October 7, 2023 attacks and the 2022 mass shooting. His commitment extends to assisting law enforcement and individuals in detention centers, offering comfort, guidance, and a listening ear. Through these experiences, Rabbi Mendy Labkowski embodies the principle that a Buffalo Rabbi is not only a teacher of Torah but also a presence in times of need.
At the heart of Rabbi Labkowski’s work is the Chabad Center for Jewish Life of Buffalo, which he has transformed into a hub of Jewish education, outreach, and community engagement. As a Chabad Rabbi, he leads synagogue services, Torah classes, holiday programs, and youth initiatives, while fostering partnerships with civic and interfaith organizations across Buffalo. His work includes mentoring young adults, coordinating social and educational programming, and volunteering with initiatives such as Kosher Meals on Wheels, which supports homebound members of the community.
Rabbi Mendy Labkowski’s commitment to service also extends internationally. In 2015–2016, he volunteered in Caracas, Venezuela, leading community outreach projects similar to Peace Corps initiatives. These experiences shaped his belief that Jewish leadership is most meaningful when paired with action, compassion, and real-world impact.
He is known for his warm, approachable personality and ability to make Torah teachings relevant and engaging. Whether through Shabbat classes, holiday workshops, or personal guidance, Rabbi Mendy Labkowski inspires a wide spectrum of Jews in Buffalo to deepen their connection to their heritage. Fluent in Hebrew and Yiddish, he bridges traditional texts with contemporary life, creating an environment where learning is both accessible and inspiring.
Central to Rabbi Mendy Labkowski’s philosophy is fostering Jewish unity and continuity. He believes that every Jew, regardless of background or level of observance, should feel welcomed and valued in the community. “I consider it my privilege and duty to serve the Jewish community in Buffalo,” Rabbi Labkowski says. “We will do everything to facilitate Jewish unity and continuity.” Under his guidance, the Chabad Center has become a true home for Jewish life—welcoming, educational, and spiritually enriching.
Rabbi Labkowski’s extensive training and skills complement his community leadership. He holds the Ministerial Title of Chaplain from the United States Chaplain Corps Academy and has completed advanced training in crisis intervention, grief counseling, and pastoral care. His expertise in interfaith relations, public speaking, and leadership allows him to serve the Buffalo community with sensitivity and effectiveness.
Despite his many responsibilities, Rabbi Mendy Labkowski remains accessible to the community. He provides personal counseling, guidance on Jewish holidays and rituals, and mentorship for individuals and families seeking support in spiritual, personal, or religious matters. His approach reflects the Chabad philosophy of combining Torah teaching with service, ensuring that every interaction is both meaningful and supportive.
Through all his work, Rabbi Mendy Labkowski demonstrates that a Buffalo Rabbi is more than a religious leader: he is a mentor, a counselor, and a guide. Under his leadership, the Chabad Center for Jewish Life of Buffalo has grown into a vibrant hub where Judaism is lived, celebrated, and shared. From holiday celebrations and Torah classes to community programs and pastoral care, Rabbi Labkowski ensures that every Jew in Buffalo feels connected, inspired, and valued.
“We will go the extra mile to make you feel comfortable,” Rabbi Mendy Labkowski says. “After all, Chabad is your home for everything Jewish in Buffalo.”
To connect with Rabbi Mendy Labkowski, whether for spiritual guidance, Torah study, or involvement in community programs, you can reach him directly at rabbi@chabadbuffalo.com.
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