News

I run because on the marathon course I am eyewitness and beneficiary of a taste of Olam HaBah – Judaism’s concept of the world as it ought to be; where people from all backgrounds and more than 100 nations are running, cheering and genuinely supporting each other.

On Yom Kippur afternoon we read a section of the Torah known as the holiness code. This section, found in chapter 19 of Leviticus, is at the heart of the Torah and contains some of the most moving commandments within our tradition. We asked six of our members to reflect upon one of these commandments. They did so in front of our community just after we chanted from the Torah. We are grateful for their personal and moving insights which are shared below:

As the High Holy Days approach, the Unetanetokef liturgy comes unsettlingly to life…. “Who by fire, who by water.” We will do our part to show up for those who have lost everything.

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Recently, Central Synagogue's confirmation class took a trip to Spain, exploring its rich and often tragic Jewish history. At the end of each day, a question was posed to our teens and they were asked to record their reflections. Here's what they had to say.

Rabbi Buchdahl joined Dean Obeidallah on his radio show to discuss the recently launched Muslim-Jewish Advisory Council, our moral obligation to stand up for those most vulnerable, and how we as Americans can find connection in a time of deepening discord.

What does quality of life mean to you? Have you communicated those wishes to loved ones? Who will speak for you when you are no longer able to speak for yourself? Read Rabbi Rubinstein's remarks from his Caring Conversations talk on Tuesday, January 31 where he shared his wisdom and provided meaningful Jewish context for this conversation that is important and relevant to every adult, at every stage of life.

One of the more familiar passages of the Mishnah enumerates good deeds that cannot be done too often, among them honoring parents, engaging in deeds of loving kindness, visiting the sick, making peace among people. And it concludes, "the study of Torah encompasses them all." If so, then a milestone reached this past December 14 by the 26 congregants enrolled in Bible and Bagels – completion of the reading of the entire Torah – marks a singular accomplishment and the most meaningful connection to our faith.

We are delighted to share that Daniel Mutlu, one of the foremost cantorial voices in this country, will be joining Central Synagogue's clergy team as Senior Cantor, effective July 1, 2017. Cantor Mutlu will work with our gifted Cantor Julia Cadrain, and together they will continue to elevate our musical leadership, weekly Shabbat worship, holiday celebrations, and b'nei mitzvah preparation for children and adults.