Congregation Or Chadash is a vibrant and innovative Reform Jewish Community that promotes Jewish Spirituality and lifelong learning based on the values of Torah, social action, friendship, and caring.

Congregation Or Chadash was formed in 1985 and is a member of the Union for Reform Judaism.  We offer a wide range of programs for all ages.  

Shabbat and Holy Day Services

Members of our community join together on Holy Days, Shabbat evenings and some Shabbat mornings for services. Children are always welcome, especially for Family Services, Pajama Havdalah and Hanging Out Havdalah services which are held once a month. Our Adult and Jr. Choirs participate at several Shabbat Services throughout the year.  Check this website or call the office for dates and times of services.

Religious Education

We believe in lifelong Jewish learning and offer the following educational opportunities:

• Sunday Religious School from Pre-K through 7^th grade;
• Tuesday evening Hebrew School beginning with 4^th grade;
• Bar and Bat Mitzvah preparation;
• Post B’nai Mitzvah programs leading to Confirmation and beyond
• Family Education days for parents and children to learn together;
• Service Participation for each grade during the school year;
• Junior Congregation
• Adult Education classes, including Torah study, Talmud Study, periodic book discussions and adult Hebrew classes.

Family Events

• Yom Kippur Break-the-Fast
• Hanukah Party
• Purim Carnival
• Chocolate Seder
• Congregational Seder
• Congregational Picnic
• BINGO
• Pajama Havdalah and Hanging Out Havdalah
• Family Education Days
• Passover University
  

Adult Fun

Our members get together for social events, such as Adults' Nights Out, Ladies' Nights Out , Guys Nights' Out, Art and Cultural events, Sisterhood and Brotherhood functions. Opportunities for friendships are also found in serving on one of our volunteer committees.

Interfaith/Outreach

Congregation Or Chadash welcomes interfaith families looking for support and involvement within the Jewish community. We offer a variety of activities, tailored to meet the needs of these members.

Our Professional Staff

Our professional staff includes a part-time Rabbi who is also our Education Director, an office administrator, a Religious School administrator and principal, and over 20 dedicated teachers.

Life-Cycle Events

Congregation Or Chadash is a wonderful place to celebrate your life-cycle events. We hope you will mark the important moments in your life through Jewish ritual with the support of our community.

Social Action

Throughout the year, our members participate in a variety of social action programs, including food drives, park cleanup, and blood drives with more activities to come as we grow.

CORY (Congregation Or Chadash Youth)

Our active youth group is open to all students in grades eight through twelve. CORY is a member of the North American Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY) Mid-Atlantic Region. Regularly scheduled activities include movie nights, pool parties, social action projects and regional weekend events.

Junior CORY

Our Jr. CORY youth group has started with students in grades five through seven, at which point members will be welcomed into the older CORY group. This isn't just a 'farm team.' Jr. CORY members can look forward to a full program of interesting and fun activities.

Kiddush Kids

Kiddush Kids is our newest social activity for children, ages 5-9 and their families. This summer's activities (2008) include attending a Frederick Keys game and going fishing. See home page and calendar for details.

Back to Top