Or Hadash Synagogue

Or Hadash Synagogue is a Canadian nonprofit organization and a Reform Jewish congregation located in Newmarket, Ontario. It serves the Jewish community in Newmarket and the broader Northern York Region, including Simcoe County and Durham Region. The synagogue operates as an egalitarian and inclusive community, embracing Jewish individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, regardless of age, marital status, sexual orientation, denomination, or level of observance. It also welcomes intermarried families and individuals from other faith communities interested in Judaism[1][5].

Mission and Affiliation

The mission of Or Hadash Synagogue is to support and enrich the Reform Jewish community by fostering a deep love and understanding of Jewish heritage, promoting fellowship within the Jewish community, and strengthening loyalty to the Jewish people worldwide. The congregation emphasizes dignity, respect, openness, and transparency in its affairs. To further liberal Judaism in Canada and globally, Or Hadash maintains its affiliation with the Union of Reform Judaism and the World Union for Progressive Judaism[1].

Community and Services

Or Hadash offers a warm, family-like atmosphere where both men and women participate equally in religious services. The synagogue holds weekly Shabbat and holiday services, adult education programs, religious school classes for children (from Grade 1 through B’nei Mitzvah), and various social and cultural activities such as film nights, speaker events, and potluck dinners. The synagogue is also engaged in social action initiatives under the principle of Tikkun Olam, which focuses on repairing the world[1][5].

Organization and Programs

The synagogue’s programming includes:

• Regular Shabbat and holiday worship services
• Religious education for children
• Adult learning opportunities
• Social and cultural programming
• Community-building events and social justice activities

Or Hadash functions as a welcoming community that encourages full participation from all its members and fosters interfaith understanding[1][5].

Registration and Location

Or Hadash Synagogue is registered as a nonprofit organization under the Canadian business registration number 850172198RR0001. It is situated at 130 Davis Drive, Unit 210, Newmarket, Ontario[2][3].

This overview encapsulates Or Hadash Synagogue’s commitment to an inclusive, egalitarian Reform Jewish community in the Northern York Region, emphasizing education, worship, and social engagement.