P'nai Or (Faces of Light) of Portland is a growing community of individuals, couples, and families who find inspiration in the Jewish Renewal approach to Judaism. We derive our inspiration from Torah, Kabbalah, the teachings of the Chassidic masters, and other wisdom traditions. Praying, singing, and dancing, we celebrate Shabbat, holidays, and life cycle events.
P'nai Or welcomes:
people who know much about Judaism
people who know very little about Judaism
people of other faiths
people of no particular faith at all
All are welcome!
P'nai Or is a vibrant, egalitarian, Jewish Renewal congregation. We support each other in our spiritual practices, our studies, our children's education, and our lives. Through the practice of mitzvot (sacred deeds) and tikkun olam (progressive social/political action) we strive to heal ourselves and the world.
Our community is a place where a Jewish spiritual perspective can flourish. Our roots are in Torah, Kabbalah, and other classic Jewish sources; our intent is to make Jewish spirituality accessible. Our guide, teacher, and friend in this unfolding process was Rabbi Aryeh Hirschfield, whose insights, knowledge and humor guided us on our path. We are also affiliated nationally with ALEPH, founded by Reb Zalman Schacter-Shalomi.
P'nai Or services combine elements of traditional Judaism with joyful song and dance in a participatory environment. A diversity of Jewish experience and expression is reflected in our membership, and all are welcome as full participants in the community.
