Or Hadash, meaning “new light,” is a home for Jewish connection, for the sacred, for authenticity, for the seeker.
New to Or Hadash? Discover how you can become part of our welcoming community. Whether you're exploring Judaism for the first time or seeking a new spiritual home, we welcome you to join us in meaningful connection and joyful practice.
We believe that we each hold a divine spark of light inside of us, whether we’re total novices in Jewish prayer and study or we come from years of experience. We bring our full selves here, and we invite you to bring your whole self, too.
Join Us for Services
In-Person: Experience the warmth of our community firsthand.
Online: Participate via Zoom (password required) or YouTube (no password needed).
Rabbi Lauren Henderson’s Rosh HaShanah Day 1 Sermon
What We Offer
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Inclusive Worship
Experience services that honor tradition and embrace modernity.
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Lifelong Learning
Engage in educational opportunities for all ages.
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Community Connections
Participate in diverse groups and social events.
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Social Action:
Join us in making a positive impact through Tikkun Olam.
Featured Events
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Shabbat: January 9-10
Kabbalat Shabbat - 6:30 pm
Shabbat Morning Services -9:15 am
Step out of your week and into Shabbat with song, prayer, and community.
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Drop-In Meditation at Or Hadash
Thursday, January 8, 12:15 pm
Take a breath during your busy day and re-center yourself through Jewish mindfulness meditation led by Rabbi Lauren. Everyone is welcome—whether you're a newcomer to meditation, an occasional practitioner, or you've had a steady practice for years.
Please arrive before 12:15 pm so we can start on time and allow ample time for guided meditation, silence, teaching, and questions.
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Musical Kabbalat Shabbat and Dinner
Friday, January 9, 5:25 pm
Let’s brighten the dark nights together—kids, grandparents, teens, toddlers, and everyone in between. We’ll kindle the lights at 5:25 pm, adding a little extra glow as we welcome Shabbat.
After candle lighting, enjoy an early, family-friendly dinner, perfect for hungry kids and grown-ups alike. Expect warm company and the joyful feeling of being together as we celebrate Shabbat and one another. After dinner, stay for Musical Kabbalat Shabbat services at 6:30 pm, led by R'Lauren and our davening team with song and guitar.
Dinner RSVP: $10/person
Kids 5 and under are free.
Come for the candle lighting and dinner. Stay for the community.Schedule
5:25 pm Candle Lighting & Dinner6:30 pm Shabbat Services
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Tot Shabbat
Saturday, January 10, 11:00 am
Join Rabbi Lauren, Pam Cohen and Gila Daman for a joyful, interactive Shabbat experience filled with music, stories, and movement—perfect for families with children ages 0–6 (and their siblings!). After the service, stay for Kiddush lunch and connect with other families. RSVP here.
This program is free and open to all—so bring your friends and share a special Shabbat morning at Or Hadash!
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Havdalah and Song Circle
Saturday, January 17, 7:00 pm
Join us to sing into the dark mysteries of winter, as we prepare to welcome the month of Shevat - the month when we will celebrate our trees and our people's crossing from slavery to freedom. The more voices we have, the more powerful it will be - bring friends! RSVP here.
” At Or Hadash, we enable pathways for people to share who they are and the best of what they can bring to the wider community.”
- Or Hadash Member
Rabbi Lauren Henderson
Rabbi Lauren Henderson originally hails from Spartanburg, SC, and is thrilled to be returning to her southern roots as the newest Rabbi of Congregation Or Hadash.
