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Roots

In the spring of 1991, a small group of families began to explore the creation of a new Conservative Jewish congregation for the towns of Wayland, Weston and Sudbury, where no Conservative congregation existed. The goal of the group was to create a vibrant and egalitarian synagogue community within the Conservative religious tradition, and to build an afternoon religious school that would nurture an enriching Jewish educational experience for their children.

History

Congregation Or Atid was formally launched in September 1991, after several months of intense discussion and planning, and with crucial assistance from the United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism and the Bureau of Jewish Education.

Utilizing space leased from the First Parish of Wayland, the congregation started out with member-led services, part-time teaching staff for several afternoon classes, and the intense energy and dedication of its founding members.

As the congregation grew, we added a part-time Rabbi, a Shabbat Torah Reader and a guest Cantor for High Holiday services. Our school expanded greatly, and, most importantly, the congregation developed a full range of prayer, education, celebration and community service activities.

In September 1998 Or Atid hired its first full-time Rabbi, Sally Finestone, who also serves as Education Director.