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October 22, 2004/Cheshvan 7 5765, Vol. 57, No. 8
Or Chadash moves into new Scottsdale site
LEISAH NAMM
Managing Editor
Members of Or Chadash Congregation celebrated the synagogue's first Shabbat at its new home during a dedication ceremony on Oct. 15.
Scottsdale Mayor Mary Manross welcomed more than 120 congregants and guests who attended the ceremony; attendees included Pastor Andrew Garman, senior pastor of La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church where Or Chadash formerly held its Shabbat services.
Earlier this year, the Conservative congregation in the Northeast Valley signed a three-year lease with an additional two-year option at an office complex at 91st Street and Bell Road in North Scottsdale.
The approximately 2,500-square-foot space houses a sanctuary, a classroom, an office, a kosher kitchen and a small lobby. Rob Burgheimer of Forum5 Architecture Studio designed the facility and John McComb of Toll Construction supervised the construction.
The congregation began in May 2002 with 11 individuals discussing the idea around a kitchen table. Now there are about 80 member families, said President Eddie Lange.
"We needed a place to call our own," said Lange. "We wanted to make a small step. If we grow beyond our expectations, that would be wonderful."
Programs include chavurot for young families, young couples, seniors and empty nesters. Friday evening and Saturday morning Shabbat services are held every other week, led by Rabbi Beryl Padorr-Kaufman, who commutes from Los Angeles. A Sunday school for children ages kindergarten-second grade started this semester. "Starting the school was a key piece for us," Lange said.
A High Holiday appeal raised more than $10,000 to launch an educational program, which will include a speaker series and scholar-in-residence weekends.
Lange said he's pleased that in a little more than two years, Or Chadash has grown to about 80 families, secured a location and started a school. "We're proud of the accomplishment," he said. The goal for the upcoming year is to hire a part-time rabbi who can provide additional rabbinical services.
It's really still a "grass-roots" synagogue, Lange said.
Or Chadash will hold an open house brunch for new members, perspective members and High Holiday attendees 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 31, at the new location, 16447 N. 91st St., Suite 102, Scottsdale. Board members will discuss the congregation's future plans and coming events. To attend, call 480-342-8858.
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