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

Summit congregation begins an exciting new era centered on belonging, lifelong learning, music, service, and meaningful Jewish connection.

SUMMIT, NJ — August 31, 2026 — Congregation Beth Hatikvah (CBH), an inclusive Reconstructionist synagogue serving communities throughout Union, Morris, and Essex counties, is pleased to announce that Rabbi Lesley Pearl has joined the congregation as its new religious and spiritual leader. Her arrival marks an exciting new chapter for CBH, with a renewed focus on meaningful relationships, lifelong learning, joyful worship, and active engagement in Jewish life.

A graduate of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, Rabbi Lesley 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; as well as Hillels at the University of Delaware, University of Texas, and Washington and Lee University. She also completed a chaplaincy internship at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. 

Rabbi Lesley’s rabbinate reflects her belief that Judaism should be accessible, intellectually engaging, spiritually meaningful, and welcoming to people from every background and level of Jewish experience. She has a particular gift for meeting people where they are—whether crafting and celebrating lifecycle events, offering pastoral care, teaching Torah, or organizing around social justice issues. A former organizer with the Pennsylvania Poor People’s Campaign Faith Leaders Team, Rabbi Lesley also brings a longstanding commitment to tikkun olam—repairing the world through service, advocacy, and compassion.

For Rabbi Lesley, hachnasat orchim (“welcoming guests”) is both a Jewish value and a way of life.

“I felt something special from the moment I first walked through the doors of CBH,” said Rabbi Lesley. “There was an openness and authenticity that immediately resonated with me. This is a community that truly cares for one another and is eager to grow together. I believe Judaism is strongest when people feel welcomed exactly as they are. I’m excited to help create a community where people can learn, celebrate, ask questions, serve others, and build meaningful Jewish lives together.”

Congregation Beth Hatikvah has long been known for embracing individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. The congregation welcomes interfaith families, members of the LGBTQ+ community, Jews by choice, those exploring Judaism, and anyone seeking an inclusive Jewish community. Its vibrant musical worship, lifelong learning opportunities, strong spirit of volunteerism, and commitment to social justice have become hallmarks of congregational life.

For Congregation Board President Carrie Andrews, Rabbi Lesley represents both continuity and new opportunity.

“From the very first Shabbat Rabbi Lesley spent with us, we could feel the connection forming,” said Andrews. “She has a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, heard, and valued. She brings warmth, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit that perfectly reflects who we aspire to be as a congregation.”

The congregation also celebrates the continued presence of Rabbi Emeritus Hannah Orden, who will remain an important part of the Beth Hatikvah community while supporting Rabbi Lesley.

“One of Judaism’s greatest strengths is l’dor v’dor—the passing of wisdom, relationships, and tradition from one generation to the next,” said Rabbi Orden. “I am delighted to welcome Rabbi Lesley to Congregation Beth Hatikvah. She brings tremendous compassion, thoughtfulness, and joy to her rabbinate, and I know our congregation’s welcoming nature and commitment will make this a meaningful partnership for many years to come.”

Looking ahead, Rabbi Lesley and CBH’s lay leadership are focused on strengthening connections within the congregation while welcoming new families and individuals into the community. Together, they envision expanding opportunities for worship, education, volunteerism, social action, music, and community programming for every generation.

Andrews continued, “Our community has a strong foundation built by generations of dedicated members. Now we have an extraordinary opportunity to build on that foundation—to invite more people in, deepen relationships, and create a synagogue that continues to thrive for decades to come. We couldn’t be more optimistic about the journey ahead.”

As Rabbi Lesley begins her first High Holiday season at Beth Hatikvah, the congregation is extending that welcome to the broader community. Anyone looking for a welcoming place to celebrate the High Holidays is invited to attend as a guest, meet Rabbi Lesley, and experience CBH's warmth and spirit firsthand. Information about services and attending as a guest is available on the congregation’s High Holiday 2026 page.

For Rabbi Lesley, that future begins with something simple.

“There is always room for one more at the table,” she said. “My hope is that every person who walks through our doors feels that they have found a Jewish home here at CBH.”