Israeli Independence

Most Jewish holidays are as old as the Bible itself. Some, like Hanukkah, are a bit newer. And Israeli Independence Day is quite recent, having emerged in the 20th century. When asked how long we have been celebrating Founders' Day at Or Chadash, I was quick to reply, certain of the answer due to my (not very) painstaking research on the matter: our first celebration is this week!

Many organizations, educational institutions and religious communities celebrate the anniversary of the date of their founding -- and some are able to celebrate with the founders themselves. Or Chadash is concluding its 19th year this Shabbat. We are fortunate to have Rabbi Richard F. Steinbrink and his wife, Diane, join us as we celebrate our history, honor those visionary congregants who helped make a dream into reality, and thank each of you for your ongoing dedication to ensure a strong future our congregation.

Below is an excerpt from our website which details our earliest history. I invite you to read it…and then join us this Shabbat as we enter our 20th year.

"The seeds for forming Or Chadash planted in the summer of 1987. Rabbi Daniel Freelander, Director of the New Jersey-West Hudson Valley Council of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations (UAHC), thought that with the completion of Route 78, the Jewish population would soon grow in the Hunterdon County area. He telephoned the mayor of Clinton, Bob Nulman, to question whether there were enough Jewish people to organize a Reform congregation.

"The first organizational meeting, held at the Clinton Town Hall, included Bob Nulman, Eric Kulp, Salena Kern, Al Berkelhammer, and Glenn Kessler. High Holy Day services, led by a student rabbi, were held at the Clinton Community Center. Arnold Sleutelberg, also a student rabbi, led services periodically throughout that first year while staying with the Breines family. A temporary home was found at the Allerton United Methodist Church. Their pastor, Steve Court, was gracious and welcoming.

"The following year, Central Synagogue of New York City supported by sending gifted clergy to conduct services. Rabbi Michael Farhi was engaged as the Temple's first ordained rabbi for our third season.

Rabbi Richard F. Steinbrink then took over leadership. Amy Kessler headed the committee that organized the Religious School. For ten years, the congregation became stronger through the dedicated efforts of a growing number of members. By the time that Rabbi Steinbrink retired, the congregation was flourishing, and the foundation had been established to enable the construction of a synagogue and temple facility."

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Joseph M. Forman