Charles E. Savenor, at The Blogs

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May 12, 2022, 7:21 AM

‘A desperate cry for help’

Three years ago, as Spring finally arrived in New York City, my wife and I went for a walk in Riverside Park. Enjoying our first Shabbat afternoon stroll of the season, we noticed a group of boys on bikes...

Apr 29, 2022, 2:57 PM

‘After the loss’

This week’s Torah portion, Achrei Mot, begins with a reference to the passing of Aaron’s sons. Some commentators believe that the laws that follow in the parsha governing where, when, and how the priests present themselves to God explain...

Jan 28, 2022, 5:12 PM

The connective power of a single letter

“And these are the laws that you will set before them.” (Exodus 21:1) At first glance, the opening verse of this week’s Torah portion seems straightforward. God gives Moses laws to instruct the Children of Israel on how...

Jan 11, 2022, 4:12 PM

Listening is leading

Every time we listen to another human being, we show that they matter.

Dec 29, 2021, 7:50 PM

Cultivating Gratitude

With the Jewish people suffering in servitude, Moses confronts Pharaoh and demands, "Shelach et Ami!/“Let me people go!” These words commence a ten-round fight between God and Pharaoh punctuated with plagues, intended to elicit a change of heart. God aims...

Sep 24, 2021, 7:55 AM

Decision Time – An Open Letter to our Son

Dear Benjy, Mazal tov! Mommy and I are so proud of you. You did a great job, as we knew you would. All your hard work paid off. I want to begin by thanking my colleagues at Park Avenue Synagogue for...

Apr 13, 2021, 12:26 AM

Tyler’s grip on America

Illness spread across America for an extended period of time. Countless became sick and many died. While this situation sounds as if could have been pulled from today’s news, this outbreak took place during President John Tyler’s presidency in...

Feb 22, 2021, 7:05 AM

Leadership Lessons from Shushan

Every generation has a responsibility to plan for the future, especially during precarious and chaotic times. Looking for leadership lessons in Achashverosh’s slaphappy Shushan may seem misguided at best, but wisdom about mentoring can be found in his royal...

Feb 12, 2021, 8:55 AM

Celebrating Connection

This week’s Torah portion, Mishpatim, begins:“VeElah Hamishpatim Asher Tasim Leefnayhem," “And these are the laws that you will set before them.” In this straightforward verse Moses is informed of his responsibility to teach the Children of Israel how...

Sep 17, 2020, 2:08 AM

Waiting for the School Bus

“Are you kidding me?” In disbelief and trepidation, these words blurted from my mouth on Tuesday, March 3, when our 15-year-old son announced that school was cancelled. With one foot out the door for the school bus, he received a...

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About Me

Rabbi Charlie Savenor is the incoming Executive Director of Civic Spirit. A graduate of Brandeis, JTS and Columbia University's Teachers College, he blogs on parenting, education, and leadership. In addition to supporting IDF Lone Soldiers, he serves on the international boards of Leket Israel and Gesher. He is writing a book called "What My Father Couldn't Tell Me."