Shir Hadash is a small, inclusive, participatory, egalitarian congregation (havurah) affiliated with the Reconstructionist branch of Judaism.
What Makes Us Different?
We focus on the spiritual, educational, social and pastoral needs of adults. Many of our members are empty nesters. We embrace mixed-faith couples, participants of any age, and LGBTQ members.
Our small size (90 people) fosters a close-knit, caring community. It’s easy to form friendships, partner with learning mentors and take on leadership roles.
Congregants value Rabbi Rachel Dvash Schoenfeld’s ability to give more time to individual members than is possible in a larger congregation.
Members routinely lead sections of the service and the Torah discussions.
We offer varied Shabbat experiences: breakfast-studies, rabbi-led and member-led services, Friday night potlucks.
We don’t own a building: spending centers on programs and services for members.
We have strong lay leadership and transparency in all decision-making.
We are funded through voluntary member contributions, not set dues.
We meet for services as the Social Hall of the Lutheran Church of the Newtons, at 1310 Centre Street (at the intersection of Centre and Cypress streets) in Newton Center, MA
