Rabbi Colin Brodie
Rabbi Colin Brodie is the spiritual leader of Or Hadash. A native of London, England and a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York, Rabbi Brodie has an MA from University College London, and a certificate in Pastoral Counseling from the Post Graduate Center for Mental Health in New York City. Rabbi Brodie’s previous experience includes serving as the spiritual leader of Congregation B'nai Torah, Temple Beth Shalom in Mahopac, NY and as school counselor at the Ezra Academy in Woodbridge, CT.
He brings a high level of enthusiasm to Or Hadash and his experience working with children, teens, adults and seniors makes him a perfect fit for us.
Rabbi Colin is committed to being the “shaliach tzibor,” serving the congregation. He brings a cantorial singing voice and a desire to continue Or Hadash's focus as the center of Jewish family life in the greater Fairfield/Trumbull area. Rabbi Brodie’s excitement can be summed up in his statement,
“Our congregation offers the opportunity to explore Judaism, to learn and to pray, all within the setting of a truly inspirational sanctuary. I see Or Hadash as a community that is committed to being there for one another in times of joy and in times of tragedy and need. I look forward to welcoming guests and others interested in joining us in services, activities and the congregation.”
Rabbi Colin’s wife, Rabbi Amanda Brodie, is also a talented Jewish educator and an active part of the Or Hadash community. They have three children, Yonaton, Elisheva, and Rafi.
Cantor Justin Pellis
Cantor Justin Pellis is a native of Westchester, NY, and was ordained in 2025 by the H.L. Miller Cantorial School of the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he studied vocal performance, conducting, and composition. He has served as the conducting intern for Nashir! The Rottenberg Chorale and composed original liturgical works, including a Suite for Trumpet, Shofar, and Hazzan and a wedding processional.
Cantor Justin brings a soulful, artistic spirit to his work. He sees life as a creative journey of seeking, and he strives to help the community connect to the Divine through music, learning, and prayer. His musical style blends Jewish folk with jazz, blues, and classical, offering a rich, expressive palette that honors tradition while embracing innovation.
Cantor Justin is especially inspired by Or Hadash’s openness to spiritual growth and its commitment to meaningful education. He has helped lead the transition to incorporating instruments in services year-round on Friday evening and occasionally Saturday morning, reflecting the community’s desire for a worship experience that appeals to many sensibilities of prayer and worship.
Whether through heartfelt davening or thoughtful conversation, Cantor Justin is passionate about building a spiritual home where everyone—from longtime members to those just beginning their Jewish journey—feels a deep sense of belonging in the Jewish community of greater Fairfield.
A fluent Hebrew speaker, Cantor Justin also has a background in theater and improv, and brings a love of language, creativity, and meaningful ritual to his leadership. His wife, Dr. Leah Sittenfeld, is currently a resident in Emergency Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, and they met at shul in Westchester.
