Congregation Beth Hatikvah Welcomes Rabbi Lesley Pearl, Opening a New Chapter for an Inclusive Jewish Community

Congregation Beth Hatikvah (CBH), an inclusive Reconstructionist synagogue serving communities throughout Union, Morris, and Essex counties, announced on August 31, 2026, that Rabbi Lesley Pearl has joined the congregation as its new religious and spiritual leader.

Rabbi Lesley is a graduate of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College who most recently served as the inaugural Jewish Chaplain at Villanova University. Previously, she served Congregations Ohev Shalom in Wallingford, PA; Kehillat HaNahar in New Hope, PA; and the Germantown Jewish Centre in Philadelphia. She also worked with Hillels at the University of Delaware, University of Texas, and Washington and Lee University, and completed a chaplaincy internship at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.

Rabbi Lesley's arrival marks a new chapter for CBH, with renewed focus on meaningful relationships, lifelong learning, joyful worship, and active engagement in Jewish life. She emphasized her belief that Judaism should be accessible and welcoming to people from every background and level of Jewish experience.

"I felt something special from the moment I first walked through the doors of CBH," Rabbi Lesley said. "There was an openness and authenticity that immediately resonated with me."

Congregation Board President Carrie Andrews noted that Rabbi Lesley represents both continuity and new opportunity. "From the very first Shabbat Rabbi Lesley spent with us, we could feel the connection forming," Andrews said.

Rabbi Emeritus Hannah Orden will remain an important part of the Beth Hatikvah community while supporting Rabbi Lesley in her new role. The congregation welcomes interfaith families, members of the LGBTQ+ community, Jews by choice, those exploring Judaism, and anyone seeking an inclusive Jewish community.

CBH, located in Summit, New Jersey, has served individuals and families throughout Union, Morris, and Essex counties since 1994. Anyone looking for a welcoming place to celebrate the High Holidays is invited to attend as a guest and meet Rabbi Lesley.

Union County Life covers religious communities, spiritual leadership, and inclusive faith-based organizations. Find more Union County religious and community news on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: Reconstructionist Rabbinical College

FAQ

Q: Who is Rabbi Lesley Pearl?
A: Rabbi Lesley Pearl is a graduate of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College who most recently served as the inaugural Jewish Chaplain at Villanova University. She brings experience serving multiple congregations and Hillels across the Northeast.

Q: Where does Rabbi Lesley work now?
A: Rabbi Lesley Pearl is the new religious and spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Hatikvah in Summit, New Jersey, serving communities throughout Union, Morris, and Essex counties.

Q: What are Rabbi Lesley's prior roles?
A: Rabbi Lesley previously served Congregations Ohev Shalom in Wallingford, PA; Kehillat HaNahar in New Hope, PA; and the Germantown Jewish Centre in Philadelphia. She also worked with Hillels at the University of Delaware, University of Texas, and Washington and Lee University.

Q: What is Congregation Beth Hatikvah?
A: Congregation Beth Hatikvah is an inclusive Reconstructionist synagogue that has served individuals and families throughout Union, Morris, and Essex counties since 1994.

Q: Who does CBH welcome?
A: The congregation welcomes interfaith families, members of the LGBTQ+ community, Jews by choice, those exploring Judaism, and anyone seeking an inclusive Jewish community.

Q: What is Rabbi Lesley's vision for the congregation?
A: Rabbi Lesley's arrival marks a new chapter with renewed focus on meaningful relationships, lifelong learning, joyful worship, and active engagement in Jewish life. She emphasizes that Judaism should be accessible and welcoming to people from every background and level of Jewish experience.

Q: Will Rabbi Emeritus Hannah Orden remain involved?
A: Yes. Rabbi Emeritus Hannah Orden will remain an important part of the Beth Hatikvah community while supporting Rabbi Lesley in her new role.

Q: Can I attend services and meet Rabbi Lesley?
A: Yes. Anyone looking for a welcoming place to celebrate the High Holidays is invited to attend as a guest and meet Rabbi Lesley.

Q: How can I contact Congregation Beth Hatikvah?
A: Contact information is available through the congregation's website. Union County Life covers Union County religious communities and local news.