Come as you are. Stay and get to know us.
There are many reasons people find their way to Dor Hadash. Some are looking for a place to celebrate Shabbat or explore Jewish traditions. Others are seeking community, thoughtful conversation, or opportunities to make a difference.
Whatever brings you here, we’re glad you’re interested in getting to know us.
Dor Hadash is a Reconstructionist Jewish congregation in Pittsburgh. Our members bring different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to Jewish life. We value what each person contributes, and there are many ways to get involved.
Your First Visit
Visiting a new congregation can come with questions, especially if you haven’t been to a synagogue before or it’s been a while.
You don’t need to know Hebrew or be familiar with our prayers to join us. Our services include singing, traditional and contemporary readings, and opportunities for participation. Prayer books offer transliteration and alternative readings for those who prefer them.
Rabbi Amy Bardack and congregants work together to lead services. You’re welcome to listen, follow along, and participate in person or on Zoom as you feel comfortable. Virtual prayer books are available.
Shabbat at Dor Hadash
Shabbat at Dor Hadash takes many forms, reflecting the interests and traditions of our members. Over the years, our services have evolved to include a range of Friday evening and Saturday morning Shabbat experiences, from familiar prayers and Torah readings to lively discussions, music, and informal study.
Some gatherings are reflective and contemplative, while others invite conversation and active participation. Whether you’re comfortable with Jewish traditions or exploring them for the first time, there’s room to experience Shabbat in a way that feels meaningful to you.
Welcome FAQ
Do I belong at Dor Hadash?
Dor Hadash welcomes Jews by birth or choice, their partners and families, and people exploring Judaism. Our community includes LGBTQIA+ individuals, Jews of color, interfaith and multifaith families, and people with different abilities, backgrounds, and approaches to Jewish life.
You don’t need to have a particular level of religious knowledge or observance to feel at home here. We value the different perspectives people bring to our community.
Do I need to contact someone before attending?
We welcome visitors who would like to experience Shabbat, an event, or get to know our congregation.
Because arrival procedures and access information may vary, we encourage first-time visitors to contact our administrator at admin@dorhadash.net before attending in person.
You can also reach out to our Membership Committee at membership@dorhadash.net if you’d like to learn more about the community.
Can I join remotely?
Yes. Dor Hadash offers interactive Zoom participation in services and programs. Some gatherings may be online only, so check the calendar for each event’s format.
Online participants can interact during services, and automated closed captions are available.
If you’re joining for the first time, please email admin@dorhadash.net to request the Zoom information. Nonmembers need to preregister for Zoom-only Friday evening services.
What opportunities are there to connect?
Shabbat is one way to get to know Dor Hadash, but it isn’t the only one.
You might join a Torah study discussion, attend a community program, participate in social action, or explore our religious school with your family.
Our members help shape congregational life in partnership with Rabbi Amy, and we welcome people with different interests and levels of Jewish experience.
Accessibility and Participation
Dor Hadash is committed to making congregational life accessible.
Our services and events are held in wheelchair-accessible spaces. Remote participation and additional accommodations, including large-print prayer books and designated masking areas. We actually also have the Torah in braille. I believe it is the whole Torah.
If you have questions or would like to discuss an accommodation, please contact admin@dorhadash.net.
We’d Love to Meet You
If you’re considering a visit, have questions, or would simply like to learn more, please get in touch.
