Central Synagogue Podcast: Recent Episodes
Central Synagogue
This is the podcast/audio archive of Manhattan's historic Central Synagogue- featuring sermons, music, lectures and conversations. Central Synagogue works tirelessly toward a world in which Judaism is central to the lives of people everywhere and is a profound and positive force for humanity.
For this session, Rebecca discusses all things siddur with Dr. Yitz Landes, Assistant Professor of Rabbinic Literatures and Cultures at the Jewish Theological Seminary. His research focuses on the premodern transmission of Jewish knowledge, as well as the development of Jewish ritual and liturgy. His first book, Studies in the Development of Birkat ha-Avodah, deals with liturgy’s historical development. He is currently working on a book tracing the reception and transmission history of the Mishnah.
Podcast hosted by Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau
Recorded May 18, 2026 at Central Synagogue.
Sermon by Rabbi Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel, "The Discipline of Discernment"
April 17, 2026
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Shemini 2026–The Sacred and the Profane: The Story of the Yanov Torah"
April 10, 2026
Podcast by Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau, "The Jewish Bookshelf: Mayse-Bukh, Rabbi Joe Skloot, PhD"
Recorded February 23, 2026 at Central Synagogue.
One of Judaism’s most unique and surprising works, the Zohar is the foundational text of Jewish mysticism. But when was it written? By whom? And what is its impact on Jewish culture and practice today?
Join Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau for a rich conversation with Sharon Koren, PhD, about these–and many more–questions.
Dr. Koren, Associate Professor of Medieval Jewish Culture and the Dr. Norman J. Cohen Chair for an Emerging Scholar at HUC-JIR, received her PhD from Yale University in Medieval Studies. Her research focuses primarily on Jewish women’s spirituality and Jewish-Christian relations in the Middle Ages. She regularly teaches courses on medieval Jewish philosophy, history, and the Zohar.
The Shulkhan Arukh is known as the corpus of Jewish law, but how should contemporary Reform Jews form a relationship to this text? Join Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau for a fascinating conversation with Alyssa Gray, PhD, about halakha (Jewish law) and its touchstone text the Shulkhan Arukh.
Additional info can be found here: Overview ⋮ The Jewish Bookshelf: Shulkhan Arukh with Alyssa Gray, PhD ⋮ Blackthorn Events
The Installation of Rabbi Rachael Houser with Rabbi Naamah Kelman-Ezrachi
January 9, 2026
You’ve probably heard of the Talmud–but what is it really, and how do/can contemporary Jews relate to this crucial text?
In this session, Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau will discuss all things Talmud with Rabbi Ethan Tucker, PhD, President and Rosh Yeshiva at Hadar.
A renowned expert in Jewish law, Rabbi Tucker was ordained by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and earned a doctorate in Talmud and Rabbinics from the Jewish Theological Seminary and a B.A. from Harvard College. Co-founder of Kehilat Hadar and winner of the first Grinspoon Foundation Social Entrepreneur Fellowship, Rabbi Tucker was named one of America’s Top 50 Rabbis by Newsweek in 2011 and 2012. He is the co-author of Gender Equality and Prayer in Jewish Law and hosts the podcast Responsa Radio.
Sermon by Rabbi Hilly Haber, "The Light of Courage and Hope: Hanukkah 5786"
December 12, 2025
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Brooklyn Michalowicz, "Healing Apart, Coming Together"
December 5, 2025
Jews have been using “midrash” as an interpretive tool for centuries. So, what is “midrash,” and how can we relate to it today?
Join Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau for an exciting conversation with Rabbi Jill Hammer, PhD, where they will delve into these topics and beyond.
Author, teacher, midrashist, mystic, poet, essayist, and priestess, Rabbi Hammer is committed to an earth-based and wildly mythic view of the world in which nature, ritual, and story connect us to the body of the cosmos and to ourselves. She is the co-founder of the Kohenet Institute and the Director of Spiritual Education at the Academy for Jewish Religion. Rabbi Hammer is the author of nine books and numerous articles, poems, and stories–including compilations of contemporary women’s midrash.
Sermon by Rabbi Sivan Rotholz, "From Crisis to Clarity: Why We Study Torah"
November 21, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Parshat Lech Lecha: To a Place You Do Not Know"
October 31, 2025
Jews are known as the “People of the Book," but which books take up space on our storied “Jewish bookshelf,” and how can we relate to them as Reform Jews today?
Throughout 5786, Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau will host eight impactful conversations with experts in the field who will help us explore our sacred texts. In this stirring kickoff program to our yearlong "The Jewish Bookshelf" series, join Rebecca in conversation with Rabbi Robert A. Harris, PhD, about the Hebrew Bible.
Rabbi Robert A. Harris, PhD, is a professor of Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages at The Jewish Theological Seminary of America, teaching courses in biblical literature and commentary, particularly medieval Jewish biblical exegesis. He has published widely on the Bible and the commentators whose interpretations continue to shape our understanding of Scripture.
Sermon by Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel, "Glimpses Into The Spiritual Practice of Genealogy" October 10th, 2025
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Brooklyn Michalowicz, "Finding Hope in Water Drawing and Stickers" - October 7, 2025
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Brooklyn Michalowiz "B’shem Omro: Bridging Worlds Through Memory | Yom Kippur Yizkor 5786" October 2, 2025
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau, "Forgiveness is Possible | Yom Kippur 5786" October 1, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Sivan Rotholz, "Closed Gates and Open Seats | Yom Kippur 5786" October 2, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "The Love of Tochecha | Yom Kippur 5786" October 2, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "One Day After Yom Kippur: Moses’ Message to Us All"
October 3, 2025
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Brooklyn Michalowicz, "The Urgency of Now: Walking through the Gates of Righteousness"
September 26, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Maurice Salth, "In One Word: Good. In Two Words: Not Good | Rosh HaShanah 5786" September 23, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, "Out of Many, One | Rosh HaShanah 5786" September 24, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Lisa Rubin, "The Essence of Judaism | Rosh HaShanah 5786" September 23, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel, "Good Point | Rosh HaShanah 5786" September 23, 2025
Sermon By Rabbi Rachael Houser, "Rosy Retrospection In The Wilderness" August 15th, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Ari Lorge, "Life is Strife…Anyone Who Says Differently is Selling Something"
August 8, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "In the Wake of Tragedy – Choosing Life and Fighting Gun Violence"
August 1, 2025
Sermon by Cantor Jenna Pearsall, "Milestone Birthdays and Existential Crises"
July 11, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "None Shall be Afraid – Fighting Against Antisemitism"
June 6, 2025
Dr. Hasia Diner is the author of Central Synagogue’s sixth and final monograph, “Three Central Synagogue Rabbis: Their Sermons in Changing Times” available on our website. She is Professor Emerita in the Department of History and the Skirball Department of Hebrew and Judaic Studies at New York University, and Director of the Goldstein-Goren Center for American Jewish History. In this episode, Dr. Diner delivers a live lecture about her research and learnings from three of Central’s Senior Rabbis (Jonah Bondi Wise, David Seligson, Peter J. Rubinstein) spanning nearly a century.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "The Danger of Playing with Alien Fire—Parshat Shemini"
April 25, 2025
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau, "Gritty Optimism in Dark Times" - April 13, 2025
The lead vocalists on Central Synagogue's newest album, "Sing a Little More" -- Cantor Dan Mutlu, Cantor Jenna Pearsall, and Rabbi Angela Buchdahl -- share their favorite musical moments and backstage stories with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Building the Israel of our Aspirations-WZO Elections"
March 14, 2025
As we prepare for the release of Central Synagogue's newest album, "Sing a Little More," music director David Strickland and Cantor Jenna Pearsall give Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel a backstage tour of the preview single, "Come," by Chava Mirel.
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, "The Perfect Heart: Reflections on 10 Years at Central"
March 7, 2025
As a taste of Central Synagogue's soon-to-be-released album, "Sing a Little More," Cantor Dan Mutlu takes Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel behind the music of the preview single, "You Are My Song/Mi Chamocha."
Sermon by Cantor Dan Mutlu. "Mi Chamocha and the Power of a Good Playlist"
February 7, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Vayechi: Turning a ‘Not So Good Blessing’ Into a Different Ending"
January 10th, 2025
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Vayeitze: Jacob Finds His Rock, I Found My Soul Clock"
December 6, 2024
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, "Rebecca: The Mother of Jacob and Esau"
November 29, 2024
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "To be a Great Nation, Be a Blessing" November 8th, 2024
If you were to write your own anthem, what would you create? Cantor Benjie Ellen Schiller illustrates the philosophy and artistry behind one of her career-defining songs: "Azamra," based on Psalm 146.
Be present for the birth of a brand-new song. Cantorial intern and composer Beth Reinstein reveals her latest creation, an interpretation of Psalm 139: 11-16, with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel.
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, "Put a Stake in the Ground and Vote"
October 18, 2024
SERMON: Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel - The Spiritual Philanthropist | Yom Kippur, Yizkor, 5785
Sermon by Rabbinical Intern Rebecca Thau, "The Sacred Weight of Shattered Tablets" October 17th, 2024
Psalm 136 may speak of Biblical miracles, but songleader, songwriter and cantorial student Jeremy Sipe brings its refrain to the present day. He speaks with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel about "Ki L'Olam Hasdo," a track from his first album, "Double Chai."
SERMON: Rabbi Angela Buchdahl - A More Forgiving World is a World Redeemed | Yom Kippur 5785
SERMON: Rabbinic Intern Rebecca Thau - Are You Lonely? A Jewish Answer to the Loneliness Epidemic | Kol Nidrei 5785
How good it is to be with the musicians behind the "Hinei Ma Tov" that often fills Central Synagogue's sanctuary with extra energy on Shabbat! Colorado-based Eyal and Danya Rivlin share the back story of their kinetic take on Psalm 133 with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel.
SERMON: Rabbi Hilly Haber - Hearing The Cry of the Shofar in the New Year| Rosh HaShanah 5785
Sermon by Brooklyn Michalowicz, "The Power of Apology: Four Steps to Teshuvah"
October 4, 2024
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Grief Calls us to Life | Erev Rosh HaShanah 5785" October 2, 2024
Psalm 122, which celebrates arriving in Jerusalem, receives majestic musical treatment from Cantor Charles Osborne, whose "Samachti B'Omrim Li" is beloved the world over. Cantor Osborne shares the story of this choral masterwork with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel.
Where does strength come from? Cantor Becky Mann shares her answer through her musical setting of Psalm 118, "Ozi V'Zimrat Yah" -- and in conversation with Cantor Jenna Pearsall.
After a beautiful duet with Cantor Dan Mutlu at our Friday night service, Rabbi Deborah Sacks Mintz shares the back story behind "Min HaMeitzar," a musical interpretation of Psalm 118, with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel.
In 1964-65, Leonard Bernstein took a sabbatical from conducting the New York Philharmonic and emerged with the Chichester Psalms, a grand three-movement piece for chorus, solo, and orchestra, leveraging six different psalms as source text. Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel speaks with emerging composer Jake Safirstein about the history and artistry of this soaring masterpiece.
Links to watch the full programs:
Hineini: A Pre-Show Suffs Talk with Producer Jill Furman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63YTufZ31Fc
Learn more about our Hineini civic engagement initiative here: https://www.centralsynagogue.org/special/hineini-a-civic-engagement-effort
Central Synagogue is not a political organization; our nonpartisan Hineini initiative emphasizes democracy as a value shared by all Americans, regardless of political affiliation.
Links to watch the full programs:
Hineini: A Pre-Show Suffs Talk with Producer Jill Furman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63YTufZ31Fc
Hineini: The Legacy and Lessons of Marriage Equality:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iw7QxeH-VDw
Learn more about our Hineini civic engagement initiative here: https://www.centralsynagogue.org/special/hineini-a-civic-engagement-effort
Central Synagogue is not a political organization; our nonpartisan Hineini initiative emphasizes democracy as a value shared by all Americans, regardless of political affiliation.
Links to watch the full programs:
Hineini: Bret Stephens & Rabbi Angela Buchdahl in Conversation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwsrqCND_sg
Hineini: The Legacy and Lessons of Marriage Equality:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iw7QxeH-VDw
Learn more about our Hineini civic engagement initiative here: https://www.centralsynagogue.org/special/hineini-a-civic-engagement-effort
Central Synagogue is not a political organization; our nonpartisan Hineini initiative emphasizes democracy as a value shared by all Americans, regardless of political affiliation.
Show notes:
Links to watch the full programs:
Hineini: Bret Stephens & Rabbi Angela Buchdahl in Conversation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwsrqCND_sg
Learn more about our Hineini civic engagement initiative here: https://www.centralsynagogue.org/special/hineini-a-civic-engagement-effort
Central Synagogue is not a political organization; our nonpartisan Hineini initiative emphasizes democracy as a value shared by all Americans, regardless of political affiliation.
Our psalms call for us to sing out a "shir hadash," a new song. Rabbi Cantor Shani Ben-Or shares with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel how she and her colleagues at the Niggunim Ensemble did just that with their version of Psalm 96.
Sermon by Rabbi Sivan Rotholz, "Vulnerability is the Language of Connection"
August 23, 2024
Kabbalat Shabbat often achieves lift-off at Central Synagogue with Rabbi Josh Warshawsky's Psalm 95, Lechu Neranena. The composer speaks with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel about how he constructed this layered, rhythmic, and joyful setting.
Sharing one of the gorgeous original melodies flowing from Jerusalem's Nava Tehila spiritual community, Daphna Rosenberg speaks with Cantor Jenna Pearsall about Psalm 92, "Mizmor Shir L'Yom HaShabbat."
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Scouting Out Destruction, And Hope: Tisha B’Av 2024" August 9th, 2024
An expert practitioner in the art of Jewish chant, Rabbi Shefa Gold describes to Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel how her now-famous setting of "Ashrei" from Psalm 84 helps her enter the house of the Eternal.
In the third of Rabbi Nicole Auerbach's three-part mini-series interviewing poets, Rabbi Karyn Kedar shares how the psalms have come to matter in her own life -- sometimes with the help of her own pen.
Sermon by Cantor Dan Mutlu, "From Sacrifice to Prayer: The Essence of True Giving" July 26th, 2024
When we have no words during the intense events of our lives, the Psalms can provide them. Contemporary poet Jessica Greenbaum speaks with Rabbi Nicole Auerbach about the role that psalms can play for people today.
Poet Alden Solovy reflects on the literary potency of ancient psalms -- and shares selections from his forthcoming book, Enter These Gates, in an interview with Rabbi Nicole Auerbach.
Cantor Dan Mutlu shares the artistry of groundbreaking 17th-century Jewish musician Salamone Rossi, including his uplifting setting of Psalm 67, in an interview with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel.
How does one relate ancient psalms to modern circumstances? That's the project of Rabbi Jade Sank Ross, who speaks with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel about her upcoming book "To You I Call."
When we rise for the Amidah, we draw upon the words of Psalm 51 to give "liftoff" to the prayers we are about to recite. In an interview with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel, singer-songwriter Ellen Allard shares her musical setting of this powerful moment of preparation, "Open My Lips."
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Kol Isha–The Voices Of Women Are Heard In The Land"
June 14th, 2024
Shavuot Yizkor Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "The Last of the Brooklyn Dodgers"
June 12, 2024
After Debbie Friedman's untimely death in 2011, her musical setting of Psalm 30, "Mourning Into Dancing," became a source of healing for many who knew and loved her. One of Friedman's dear friends, musician and educator Merri Lovinger Arian, speaks with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel about this stirring piece and its remarkable composer.
What happens when ancient words meet an Eighties pop song? Rabbi Angela Buchdahl and Music Director Dave Strickland share the origin story behind Central's mashup of "Ashira" from Psalm 13 and Steve Winwood's 1986 classic, "Higher Love."
Enter the world of Kabbalistic mysticism as Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel interviews former Central Synagogue Cantor Jordan Franzel, who unpacks his musical version of Psalm 29, "Havu L'Adonai."
Sermon by Rabbi Hilly Haber, "Finding Shelter on the Journey: Parshat Emor"
May 17, 2024
What is the one thing you ask for? Cantor Jenna Pearsall interviews singer-songwriter Chava Mirel about her version of Psalm 27's "Achat Sha'alti," a staple of the Elul season.
If you've attended our Friday night services, you've likely heard Hollis Schachner's beautiful setting of Psalm 19, the duet "Y'hiyu L'Ratzon." Hear the surprising story of the song's origins from Cantor Schachner herself, in conversation with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel and Central's musical director Dave Strickland.
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, "A Message to Our Seniors: Do Not Disengage"
May 3, 2024
Who gets to dwell in the tent of the Eternal? Psalm 15 offers an answer, and composer Billy Dreskin shares his joyful and dynamic musical setting of the psalm ("Mi Yagur") in a special interview with Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel.
What does it feel like to approach the Eternal One? Join Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel as he learns how beloved Jewish composer Danny Maseng crafted his version of the entrance music to our morning service, “Mah Tovu."
How do we deal with fear? Listen in on Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel’s interview with Jewish rockstar Dan Nichols, who shares the personal story behind his compelling musical setting of Psalm 3 and the empowering message he hopes listeners will take away.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Seeing the World Through Multiple Lenses"
March 22, 2024
Hear excerpts from Rabbi Buchdahl’s Dec. 15 sermon on the power of tears and from Mohamed Abu Jafar, a resident of Jenin in the West Bank and a member of The Parents Circle-Families Forum.
From Pain to Purpose: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTjCsjJ9U78
Mohamed Abu Jafar was 14 when his brother Ahmed was killed by the IDF in their hometown of Jenin in the West Bank. Motivated by his brother’s tragic death, Mohamed studied nursing–but continued to harbor anger towards the systems that led to his brother’s death, until he was introduced to the Parents Circle.
From Pain to Purpose: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTjCsjJ9U78
Cultivating Coexistence & Hope: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmsY0Hdtfrw
Hear from individuals who have been directly impacted by the attacks of Oct. 7 and how they are working hard to embrace hope.
Communal Meeting with the Families of Hostages: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPxF_LNmXU0&t=1s
Leading a Shared Future: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3bn8DgTaEA
From Pain to Purpose: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTjCsjJ9U78
Cultivating Coexistence & Hope:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmsY0Hdtfrw
In this never before shared interview, Central Synagogue’s senior rabbi shares her own journey from horror to hope since Oct. 7. This interview was recorded on Dec. 19, 2023.
One Tiny Seed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZcq0c9_njY
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Remembering the Hostages: Every Person Counts"
March 1, 2024
Hear from Rabbi Buchdahl about the Jewish responsibility to care for one another and Dan Senor, author of The Genius of Israel, on the global significance of Israel today.
Genius of Israel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okPFcvMRN1Q
Hear from Dr. Cochav Elkayam-Levy, an authority on international human rights law, about Israeli women’s feelings of betrayal by UN agencies in the wake of Oct. 7.
Leading A Shared Future: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3bn8DgTaEA
Antisemitism Revealed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAYWUllEoxc
Content warning: this episode contains depictions of violence and bodily harm. Hear from several people whose loved ones were taken captive into Gaza.
Communal Meeting with the Families of Hostages: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPxF_LNmXU0
Leading A Shared Future: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3bn8DgTaEA
Hear from leading Israeli thinker and intellectual Yossi Klein HaLevi and Anat Marla, who is both a survivor of the attacks and the Director of the Society and Community Division of the Kibbutz Movement.
“In the Beginning”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAEjbCtZiqw
Yossi Klein HaLevi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yiQfB_RzXy8
Leading a Shared Future: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3bn8DgTaEA
In a conversation with Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Ambassador Lipstadt discusses the current rise in hatred against Jews following October 7, and what we can do to advocate for stronger action against antisemitism in the streets, online, on college campuses.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "The People of Israel are a Mixed Multitude"
January 19, 2024
Sermon by Rabbi Dan Ross, "Parashat Shemot: God's Circle of Compassion"
January 5, 2024
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Brooklyn Michalowicz, "Eyes Wide Open: Envisioning Deeper Connections"
December 29, 2023
SERMON: Rabbi Mo Salth, "The Fine Line between Revenge and Reconciliation"
December 22, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Those who Sow in Tears—Joseph, the Cryer"
December 15, 2023
Listen to Yair Rosenberg, Dr. Rachel Fish, and journalist and Central member Abigail Pogrebin discuss navigating antisemitic speech, threats, and attacks that have surged in the wake of October 7.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Be’er L’Chai Roi–Finding a Wellspring of Hope in Israel"
November 10, 2023
The installation of and sermon by Rabbi Andrew Kaplan Mandel, "Make and Believe"
October 27, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Israel at War: In the Beginning there was the Word"
October 13, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Hilly Haber "Lifting Up The Lamp" | Kol Nidre 5784" September 24th, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Lisa Rubin, "One of Thirty-Six" | Rosh HaShanah 5784" September 17th, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "L’Chaim! – Judaism’s True Telegram" | Rosh HaShanah 5784" September 16th, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Dan Ross, "This Rosh HaShanah Sermon Was Not Written By ChatGPT" | Rosh HaShanah 5784" September 16th, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Am Yisrael Chai | Erev Rosh HaShanah 5784" September 15th, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Maurice Salth, "Why We Whisper Tonight’s Torah Portion" September 01, 2023
Israel’s ruling coalition has just passed the first of several bills to overhaul the judiciary. This new law prevents its Supreme Court from questioning the reasonableness of any law or nomination approved by the majority of the Knesset. Such a monumental change has the potential to alter the democratic nature of Israel itself. In response, massive protests continue throughout Israel.
What is the true intention behind this judicial overhaul? How will the passage of this first new law impact Israel and its people? What role have the ongoing protests played in shaping the process? And most importantly, what might lie ahead for the nation?
To help unpack the implications of this ruling, we invite you to join us virtually for a conversation between Michael Koplow, Chief Policy Officer of Israel Policy Forum, and Rabbi Joy Levitt. Mr. Koplow will provide invaluable insights into these pressing questions, shed light on the current state of affairs in Israel, and answer questions from our community. We hope you will join us for this important conversation.
Michael Koplow is the chief policy officer of Israel Policy Forum, and also serves as a research fellow of the Kogod Research Center at the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America. Before coming to Israel Policy Forum, he was the founding program director of the Israel Institute. He holds a Ph.D. in Government from Georgetown University, where he specialized in political development and ideology, and the politics of Middle Eastern states. He writes Israel Policy Forum’s weekly Koplow Column and edits Israel Policy Exchange, which is a leading source for commentary and analysis on Israel and American Jewry, and his work regularly appears in other publications. In addition to his Ph.D., he holds a B.A. from Brandeis University, a J.D. from New York University, and an A.M. in Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard University.
Sermon by Rabbi Dan Ross "Parashat Matot-Masei: Brought to You By the Number 42" July 14, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Blessing the Transitions of our Children, and Ourselves" June 2, 2023
Our final Story presents the many voices of our Central community, recorded when we gathered together at Rosh Hashanah this past fall. Many thanks to everyone who joined us, reflected, and recorded their thoughts.
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "Right Before Our Very Eyes: Our Everlasting Love for Our Departed" May 26, 2023
Central members and siblings Freeman Shore and Wini Freund share more about their childhood, and their family’s extraordinary relationship to the Israeli state’s founding generation of leaders.
In this conversation, study partners Gail and Sarah discuss their paths to their second careers.
Central staff members Alexandra Singer and Carrie Connor share how they came to the Central community and connected with each other.
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Chelsea Feuchs, "Farewell: Gratitude for the Gifts of this Community"
April 14, 2023
Doris Manville-Wagstaff speaks with her husband Scott Wagstaff about her journey to Central and Judaism, her mental health struggles, and her father’s incredible connection to a Holocaust survivor.
If you or a loved one is having suicidal thoughts, please call or text 988, or access help through the online chat at https://988lifeline.org/chat/.
Central congregant Ed Saslaw hears from fellow congregant and friend Alissa Ballot about her family background and the ancestors who inspired her name.
Jill Sharfstein interviews her friend Nancy Fisher about the aftermath of the 1998 fire, Central's embrace of Avery Fisher Hall, and Nancy's enduring connection to Central even while hospitalized.
Members Estelle (Nicki) Tanner and Burton Lehman talk about Burt's path to leadership in the Reform Movement and the inspiring teachers he met along the way.
Remarks from The Israel Religious Action Center Director, Orly Erez-Likhovski
March 17, 2023
Central congregants and siblings Freeman Shore and Wini Freund have a conversation in which they share some special family memories.
Members Arden Donohue and Gail Sinai discuss how Arden first came to Central, her Jewish journey, and the process of becoming b’nei mitzvah.
Sermon by Rabbi Dan Ross, " Parashat Terumah: In Memory of Ilan Ramon"
February 24, 2023
Zach Rolf and Hadley Rolf remember how they first met as Central staff members, and how their Jewish home remains at Central years even now, years later.
Sermon by Rabi Mo Salth, "Striving to Kvetch Less and Give a Whole Lot More"
February 17, 2023
Central member Nancy Hannah Levy Torres speaks with her friend Marion Greenup about her Jewish upbringing, and her journey to a fulfilling spiritual life.
Sermon by Rabbi Ari Lorge, "The Leviticus 18:5 Test: Live by them, don’t die by them"
February 10, 2023
Central’s former Executive Director Livia Thompson shares her Jewish journey, discussing the path she took to become a Jewish professional and a member of Central’s senior leadership team at a pivotal moment in our congregation’s history.
Longtime members Ruth Perelson and Lois Perelson-Gross (Ruth’s daughter) talk about Shabbat, and Ruth’s project to bring meaningful Shabbat practice into the lives of more Central families.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Kol Yisrael Arevim—All Israel is Responsible for each other"
January 27, 2023
Sermon by Rabbi Dan Ross, "Parashat Vayigash: Precious Specks of Time"
December 30, 2022
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "Bring on the Light – 8+1 Inspiring Stories for this Chanukah" December 23, 2022
Sylvia Smoller talks with her son Jordan Smoller about her family’s escape from the Nazis, and the legacy of resilience she has passed on to future generations.
Congregants Patricia Rich and Michael Silverberg share the story of how they met and fell in love because of their connection to Central Synagogue.
Sue Dorn shares more memories of her extraordinary life with Rabbi Sarah Berman. Part 3 of 3.
The Installation of Cantor Jenna Pearsall with Cantor Dan Mutlu, Cantor Neil Michaels, Rabbi Janet Liss and Shonni Silverberg, November 18, 2022
In this second clip from their conversation, Rabbi Sarah Berman and Central member Sue Dorn discuss Sue’s experiences of antisemitism and other discrimination, her marriage, and her positive approach to life.
We’re thrilled to share our most recent StoryCorps recording by Rabbi Sarah Berman and Central member Sue Dorn. In this first clip from their conversation, they discuss Sue's earliest childhood memories during World War II, her experience with antisemitism, and how she and her siblings were taught the importance of working toward justice.
Partners in Central social justice programming, Sherry King and Rabbi Hilly Haber discuss how their Jewish values and experiences bring them to this important work.
Friends, and Central members, Ed Saslaw and Sharon Gunderson share their unusual first meeting, their growing friendship and community at Central Synagogue.
Members Carol and Tom discuss the premature birth of their first grandson, Sam, and find joy in the incredible transformation he has gone through.
Sermon by Rabbinic Intern Chelsea Feuchs, "Repeating, Retelling, Remembering"
October 17, 2022
Central Synagogue’s senior cantor Daniel Mutlu speaks with his son Saya on the eve of Saya’s bar mitzvah about the meaning of this important moment.
Members Miles Gerstein and Susan Davis talk about their family’s Jewish journey, and how they came to Central.
Sermon by Rabbi Ari Lorge, "Jewish Optimism: Adopting our God’s-Eye-View"
October 5, 2022
Kol Nidre Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "The World is Built on Kindness"
October 4, 2022
Rabbi Dan Ross speaks with his wife, Rabbi Jade Sank Ross, about their different paths to becoming rabbis
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Jewish Pride: Live Up To Your Name"
September 26, 2022
Rosh Hashanah Sermon by Rabbi Dan Ross, "Modeh Ani: I am Wrong and I am Grateful"
September 25, 2022
Members Carolyn Breidenbach and Audrey Zucker reminisce about Sisterhood and how it connected them to each other and to others in the Central community and beyond.
Congregant Freeman Shore talks with staff member Lauren Dickel about their different paths to Central.
Central Synagogue member Robin Lynn and her daughter Carla Steckman about how the fatal Tay-Sachs disease has affected their family.
Ami Samuels and Susan Picker talk about their Jewish backgrounds and their shared love of Central’s Saturday morning Mishkan service.
Elizabeth and Susan Wagner, congregational leaders and popular b’nei mitzvah tutors, talk about their Jewish identities, their family, and their long history of engaging with Central.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl - "Deuteronomy: Putting Moses on the Therapist’s Couch"
August 5, 2022
Howard and Jill Sharfstein speak about their marriage, and their 40 years as congregants of Central Synagogue. Together they reflect on how Central became increasingly more important through Howard’s illness and their growing involvement after his recovery, including Howard’s position, in 2006, as Chair of the Central Board of trustees.
Friends, Monica Corton and Laura Strauss, converse about the impact that their involvement at Central has had on their lives.
Rabbi Angela Buchdahl and Rabbi Peter Rubinstein, on becoming Clergy and coming to Central Synagogue, December 10, 2021
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, “Let Us Bless: 50 Years of Women in the Rabbinate"
June 03, 2022
SERMON: Rabbi Angela Buchdahl- "The Sabbatical Year and Debt Forgiveness: Making It Real in 2022" May 14, 2022
Sermon by Rabbinical Intern Andrew Mandel, "Linking Yourself to Community" February 25, 2022
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "Clothing Ourselves With Kindness" February 11th, 2022
Sermon by Rabbi Sarah Berman, “Listening and Doing and Learning and Doing Better” January 28, 2022
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, “The Most Repeated Commandment: To Love, Care, Protect and Provide for The Stranger” December 24, 2021
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, “I Need A Hero! Shining a Light on Complicated Legacies” December 3, 2021
Central’s tribute to the great Stephen Sondheim from Shabbat Services, Z”L
“Opening” (from Sunday In The Park with George)>
“Not A Day Goes By” from (Merrily We Roll Along)>
“No One Is Alone” (from Into The Woods)>
“Being Alive” (from Company)>
“Move On” (from Sunday In The Park with George)
Sermon by Rabbi Dan Ross, "Parashat Vayeitzei: Walking the Jewish Way"
November 12, 2021
Shmini Atzeret Yizkor Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, " Celebrating Our Departed"
Septermber 28, 2021
Sermon by Rabinical Intern Andrew Mandel, "Inviting Your Ancestors to Dinner"
September 20, 2021
Sermon by Rabbinical Intern Chelsea Feuchs, "Ha’Azinu: An Ethical Will"
September 17, 2021
Sermon by Rabbi Nicole Auerbach, "A Year of Release"
September 8th, 2021|Rosh Hashanah 5782
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, "All Is Not Lost: We Return to the Stone"
September 7th, 2021|Rosh Hashanah 5782
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "Live Long and Prosper - Jewish Wisdom on Harnessing Catastrophe"
September 6th, 2021|Rosh Hashanah 5782
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth - "Setting the Highest of Standards: Elul’s and Shoftim’s Convergence"
August 13th, 2021
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal: "What the Last White Rhinos Teach Us About Love" July 23, 2021
Shavuot Sermon by Rabbi Sarah Berman - "These Are the Generations of Adam"
May 17th, 2021
Sermon by RabbI Angela Buchdahl, "Re-entering the Camp: Lessons from the Ancient Priests", April 16, 2021
The Installation of Rabbi Sarah Berman
Introduction by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl and Drash by Rabbi Norman Cohen
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, “Anti-Asian Hate: We Too Were The Stranger” March 19, 2021
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, "Building a Community of Belonging"
February 19th, 2021
Sermon by Cantorial Intern Jenna McMillan, “Finding Ourselves In The Wilderness” February 12, 2021
Six Arab nations have now officially recognized the State of Israel, but what does this shift in geopolitical status mean for the nation and its people? Join policy expert Dr. Keren Fraiman and journalist Yuna Leibzon in conversation with our Upper East Side shlicha Karin Lagziel, as they break down the meanings and implications of The Abraham Accords, a historical series of bilateral agreements.
Wednesday February 3, 2021
Reverend Otis Moss III and Rabbi Hilly Haber discuss the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement.
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "Being a Pursuer of Wholeness in the Wake of the Attack on Our Capitol." January 8, 2021
Jewish culinary historian Michael Twitty discusses his James Beard Award-winning book, The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African-American Culinary History in the Old South, and his forthcoming book, Kosher Soul with Rabbi Ari Lorge. Twitty shares his perspective on race in America, Southern cuisine, and the cultural significance of soul food.
Three wise voices talk about how to confront and lift the weight of this unprecedented time. We’ll discuss specific tools that can be useful even for those who consider themselves high-functioning and “fine” — to talk about and treat psychological hurdles which for many of us, feel new.
About our Panelists:
Dr. Bea Arthur is a Columbia University-trained psychotherapist and speaker who works with high-performance individuals in high-pressure work environments, Catie Cole, is the co-founder of The Mental Health Coalition with her father Kenneth Cole, and the Founder of “How Are You Really?”, and Dr. Betsy Stone is a longtime trusted lecturer at Hebrew Union College and has been leading webinars on Trauma, Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth for congregations and clergy. Interviewed by journalist and congregant Abby Pogrebin.
Thursday December 3, 2020
Childhood anxiety expert Dr. Harold Koplewicz, founder and medical director of the Child Mind Institute, a national nonprofit in Manhattan and the San Francisco Bay Area, has spent his entire career studying how kids respond to stress and social derailment, and he will offer concrete suggestions as to how to help children through a myriad of hurdles, including when professional help can make the difference. Dr. Koplewicz is interviewed by journalist/congregant Abby Pogrebin.
Wednesday December 2, 2020
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, “Hearing The Other Half: Reflections On The Election” November 06, 2020
Award-winning educational leader and best-selling author Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum (Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?) and Rabbi Angela Buchdahl explore the role identity plays in Jewish spaces and the broader world. October 22, 2020.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl - "We Are Family: Rethinking Race in the Jewish Community"
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth
"Reflect, Repair and Resolve: Taking Responsibility For Our Very Lives"
Sermon by Rabbi Sarah Berman, "Opening Our Eyes, Ears, Minds, and Hearts" September 04, 2020
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, “Open Your Hands To Your Poor Brother” August 14, 2020
Sermon by Cantor Julia Cadrain, “Mah Tovu — how beautiful, how good: a sermon in song.” July 3, 2020
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, “Our Humbling and Empowering Mission To Be Holy” June 19, 2020
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth, "Courage - How We May Navigate The Very Narrow Bridge Before Us"
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal from October 4, 2019- "The Reptile and the Parking Ticket: Finding Space for Change"
Rabbi Ari Lorge's sermon from "Finding God’s Presence in God’s Absence” from March 25, 2016
Rabbi Mo Salth's sermon "Facing Fear: Walking the Very Narrow Bridge" from Yom Kippur 5777/2016
Rabbi Mo Salth- Widsom on the Crisis from Beyond: What our Deceased Loved Ones Would Say About The COVID-19 Crisis, April 15, 2020
Rabbi Angela Buchdahl speaks with Dr. Ruth Westheimer about her life and career after a screening of her film Ask Dr. Ruth at Central Synagogue- February 5, 2020
Rabbi Angela Buchdahl sings "Devorah’s Song"- In Memory of Debbie Friedman z”l on Shabbat Shira," February 7, 2020
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, “Caring for our Tree of Life: Tu BiShvat in 2020." February 07, 2020
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl. "Finding Spirituality in Talking Stones." December 6, 2019
Led by Columbia Professor and founding partner of Kaplan, Hecker & Fink, Roberta Kaplan, and Eric Ward, Executive Director of the Western States Center.
Roberta Kaplan is leading the legal fight against the hate groups behind the violent alt-right confrontations in Charlottesville, partnering with nonprofit Integrity First for America on its landmark suit; Eric Ward is a national expert in the relationship between anti-Semitism and white supremacy. Together they joined in conversation about their work and the challenges they face in their fight against bigotry at Central Synagogue on December 3, 2019
Sermon by Rena Singer, "Wrestling with Our Brothers; Thinking About How We Show Up for Our Wider Jewish Family this Thanksgiving." November 29, 2019
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl- "Settling the Land of Israel—Is Legality the Main Question?" November 22, 2019
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl- "Sukkot as the Most Universal and the Most Quintessential Jewish Holiday." October 18, 2019
Sermon by Rabbi Nicole Auerbach from Yom Kippur services, October 9, 2019- "Yizkor: Continuing the Conversation"
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl from Yom Kippur services, October 9, 2019- "Time to Forgive: Second Chances in an Era of Mass Incarceration"
Panel on Teshuvah in The Age of Mass Incarceration led by Rabbi Hilly Haber featuring Terrance Coffie, Topeka K. Sam, and Kempis “Ghani” Songster, whose lives have been directly impacted by the criminal justice system, and who have dedicated themselves to creating social and political change in America. October 9, 2019 from David Geffen Hall (Lincoln Center).
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth from Rosh Hashanah services, September 30, 2019- "The Wisdom Right Before Our Eyes"
Sermon by Rabbi Dan Ross from Yom Kippur services, October 8, 2019- "A Time For Stories"
Sermon by Rabbi Ari Lorge from Rosh Hashanah services, September 30, 2019- "Sanctuaries in the Wilderness"
Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal from October 4, 2019- "The Reptile and the Parking Ticket: Finding Space for Change"
Sermon by Rabbi Peter Rubinstein from Rosh Hashanah services, October 1, 2019- "The Complicity of Silence."
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl from Rosh Hashanah services at David Geffen Hall (Lincoln Center), September 29, 2019- "Healing Loneliness: Making A Big Shul Feel Small"
Award-winning poet Jessica Greenbaum talks about the role of havdalah and poetry as we prepare to atone for our sins this season. She asked, “How do we use both to move from the self we have been to the one we are trying to near?” S'lichot Lecture from September 21, 2019.
Sermon by Rabbi Mo Salth from September 13, 2019. "Listen Up People! Rules for Living in 1000 BCE and 2019 CE."
A conversation between historian Deborah Lipstadt and Rabbi Angela Buchdahl on Anti-Semitism.
Sermon by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl from May 31, 2019- "Credit Card Theology: Do we Default or Repay our Debts"