What Makes Us Different?

Shir Hadash is a small, inclusive, participatory, egalitarian congregation (havurah) affiliated with the Reconstructionist branch of Judaism. Our name, Shir Hadash, A New Song, comes from  psalm 98.

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 (70 people) fosters a close-knit, caring community. It’s easy to form friendships, partner with learning mentors and take on leadership roles.

• We feature the best of both worlds - a small independently run havurah with access to rabbis and educational resources of a larger congregation through our partnership with Temple Ohabei Shalom (TOS)

• Members work together on matters of ritual, education and decision-making, fostering empowerment and mutual learning

• Pastoral care available via TOS: Rabbi Audrey Marcus Berkman (formerly Rabbi of Shir Hadash) and Rabbi Jenn Queen

•  Member-led hesed committee reaches out to members in times of need 

•  We offer varied Shabbat experiences: breakfast-studies, rabbi-led (with TOS) or member-led services and Torah discussions

•  Friday night potlucks in member homes

•  We don’t own a building: spending centers on programs and services for members.

•  Strong lay leadership and transparency in all decision-making.

•  Voluntary member contributions (not set dues).

•  Conveniently located on the Green line (member-led services at Lutheran Church in Newton Centre; rabbi-led services at Temple Ohabei Shalom in Brookline. Directions.