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: November 28-29
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, December 4, 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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Tot Shabbat
Saturday, December 6, 11: 00 am
Join Rabbi Lauren and Pam Cohen 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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Introduction to Hevruta Study
Thursday, December 11, 7:00 pm
There is so much wisdom in the content of Jewish learning - but it’s not just the content that’s special. There is a particular magic to Jewish learning that happens in pairs and small groups, with no lesson plan and no teacher. How can that work? Join us to learn the art of hevruta study. RSVP here.
7:00 Schmooze, 7:15-9:00 Learning
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Hanukkah Latke Dinner and Hanukiyah Lighting/Musical Kabbalat Shabbat
Friday, December 19, 5:00 pm
Hanukkah Latke Dinner & Hanukiyah Lighting
Let’s brighten the dark nights together—kids, grandparents, teens, toddlers, and everyone in between. Bring your favorite hanukiyah (yes, even the glitter-covered one) and a box of candles from home. We’ll kindle the lights right at 5:15 pm, adding a little extra glow as we welcome Shabbat.After the lighting, enjoy an early, family-friendly latke dinner, perfect for hungry kids and grown-ups alike. Expect warm company, crispy latkes, and that joyous feeling of being together to celebrate the holiday, Shabbat and each other. After dinner, stay for Shabbat services at 6:30 pm.
RSVP for dinner: $10/person. Come for the candles, stay for the community.
” 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.
