Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis joined the opening ceremony for an extension to the Chabad Buckhurst Hill premises, affixing a silver mezuzah donated by the parents of Chabad's Rabbi Odom Brandman.
Addressing more than 130 guests, Rabbi Brandman said the Chief's involvement was recognition of Chabad's contribution to Anglo-Jewry.
Rabbi Mirvis paid tribute to a community which has grown substantially from small beginnings. Refreshments were prepared by chef Neil Cohen, a Chabad member. The cost of the £70,000 extension was met through local donations.
Over the past 11 years, the centre has built up a database of more than 600 local families, many unaffiliated to other communities.
It runs regular services, a cheder, adult education classes, cookery for children, ladies' evenings and kosher restaurant nights. It also offers in-house catering.
This place is exploding with vibrancy’
"For Essex - where it is often reported that Jewish life is dwindling - this place is exploding with vibrancy," Rabbi Brandman said.
"People are moving here, unaffiliated Jews are all over and they are slowly coming out to get involved. It's truly a revolution."