“A new light.” That’s the meaning of Or Chadash in Hebrew. Now you stand before Congregation Or Chadash in Oak Park. It is more than just a synagogue. It’s a testament to faith and community.
Congregation Or Chadash was born from a desire to maintain a specific outlook on Torah Judaism. This happened over two decades ago. Rabbi Eliezer Cohen founded it after his pulpit was eliminated due to a synagogue merger. He and eight former congregants sought a new platform. They began meeting in homes each Shabbat and Sunday morning. They wanted to create something different in the Oak Park area.
The group incorporated as Or Chadash. The name signaled their intention to offer a fresh perspective. A key principle was the inclusion of women in synagogue life. The first president was a woman. This demonstrated that halakha permitted it. At Congregation Or Chadash women recite kaddish. They can also read from the liturgy. Women open the ark. They deliver summaries of the week’s Torah portion too.
For years Congregation Or Chadash was a traveling minyan. It moved from place to place. Eventually it found a permanent home. It now shares space with the Lubavitch Cheder on Coolidge Highway. This location provides a sanctuary. It offers a social hall. There is even a children’s playroom. This allows the congregation to grow and thrive.
Rabbi Cohen passed away in 2013. His loss was deeply felt. But the community recognized his expectation. He believed his students should continue his work. Congregation Or Chadash has done just that. It has built upon his foundation. It continues to practice rationalist halakhic Judaism.
Congregation Or Chadash welcomes everyone. It strives to create a warm and appreciative atmosphere. All visitors should feel at home here. The synagogue embraces diversity. It extends honors without regard to affiliation. The goal is simple. They want congregants and guests to enjoy each other’s company. They want them to linger over kiddush and find comfort in their shul.
Today Congregation Or Chadash continues to be an inclusive synagogue. It holds services and events regularly. The community gathers for Mincha on Fridays. They celebrate Shabbat with Shacharit. They share Kiddush. Congregation Or Chadash remains committed to its founding principles. It stands as a beacon of faith. It welcomes all who seek a connection to Judaism.