Light of the Future. That’s the meaning behind the name Congregation Or Atid. It stands as a beacon in Metrowest Boston.
Congregation Or Atid began in 1991. A small group of families sought a Conservative congregation. They wanted an afternoon religious school. This was for Wayland, Weston, Sudbury, and nearby towns.
In the early days, members poured their energy into the synagogue. Community, friendship, and worship were key. Sharing life events and social action mattered too. Education was also vital. For ten years, Or Atid lacked its own building. Services and school took place at First Parish in Wayland. A founding member and his father built Or Atid’s first ark. It housed a Torah loaned from Camp Ramah of New England.
As Congregation Or Atid grew, it needed staff. Rabbis and a religious school director were hired. Several part-time rabbis served. These were Rabbi Howard Kosovske, Rabbi Philip Cohen, and Rabbi David Aaron. In 1995, Lisa Avery Peck became cantor for High Holiday services. She still serves today.
In 1998, Rabbi Sally Finestone began her full-time role. She served for 20 years as rabbi and education director. She became Rabbi Emeritus after her retirement. Rabbi Louis Polisson followed her. He was Or Atid’s full-time rabbi from 2018 to 2023. In July 2023, Rabbi David Finkelstein became the rabbi.
The congregation’s growth led to a building plan in the 1990s. A committee searched for land in Wayland. The goal was a permanent home for Or Atid. In 2000, the property on 97 Concord Road was purchased. Bruner/Cott, an architectural firm, was hired. They designed a modern synagogue. It provided proper orientation for worship. The design connected with the woods and natural light.
Construction started after a groundbreaking ceremony in September 2001. One year later, congregants marched to their new home. They carried Or Atid’s Torahs from First Parish. The new building was architecturally award-winning. The first service was Erev Rosh Hashanah 5763. The generosity and commitment of Or Atid’s members made it happen. They guided the project from start to finish.
In 2014, Or Atid adopted a new approach. It was a “sustaining pledge model.” This eliminated financial barriers to membership. It allowed young families and seniors to join. Everyone could pledge to their ability.
Today, Congregation Or Atid houses the Jewish Learning Collaborative of Metrowest. The school wing is a learning center. It provides families a place to learn and grow together. The building reflects Or Atid’s name. Natural light and spirituality are key. The sanctuary opens to a patio through a folding glass wall. The handcrafted Ark has distinctive lead glass doors. The sense of community is strong here. Children are involved. Interfaith families are welcomed. All ages enjoy praying and learning together. Congregation Or Atid fosters Jewish identity and values. It promotes Jewish traditions in a caring environment.