Spiritual Enrichment: Caring for the Whole Self
For nearly 40 years, Rabbi Shlomo Tenenbaum has served as The Ark’s spiritual leader. Recruited by The Ark’s founder Dr. Binyamin Sokol z”l, Rabbi Tenenbaum combines mental health expertise from Columbia University School of Social Work with extensive Torah knowledge honed through collaborative work with leading American poskim (Jewish legal authorities), allowing him to provide holistic counseling for mind, body, and soul.
As Director of The Ark’s Spiritual Enrichment department, Rabbi Tenenbaum offers mental health therapy for those grappling with conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as marriage counseling, grief counseling, and end-of-life support.
Over the years, Rabbi Tenenbaum has officiated over 2,600 funerals free of charge, facilitating dignified Jewish burials in accordance with Jewish law, regardless of means. He has also presided over numerous joyous occasions, including weddings and bar/bat mitzvah celebrations. He recounts officiating a wedding for a young couple, during which he discovered that the groom’s parents had never had a proper chuppah (canopy) ceremony. Rabbi Tenenbaum arranged for the parents to also be celebrated with a chuppah that very day. Years later, he was called upon again—this time to officiate the wedding of the couple’s children, carrying on this beautiful family legacy.Central to Rabbi Tenenbaum’s work are his Torah classes, hosted four times a week and tailored to engage participants of all backgrounds. Focusing on the Parshah and Jewish law regarding holidays and Shabbat observance, these classes impart not just knowledge but the empowering affirmation that “Hashem loves every individual, their unique makeup, and unique role in this world.”
Under the guidance of Rabbi Tenenbaum, the Spiritual Enrichment department has become a bedrock, offering mental health support, spiritual connection, and uplifting community gatherings where all can celebrate life’s joyous moments while embracing dignity and Torah values.
The Ark’s Spiritual Enrichment Department is Hiring!
The Ark is excited to announce an employment opportunity for an ordained Assistant Rabbi to join our highly respected spiritual leadership. As a result of substantial growth and an enduring commitment to Jewish values, this part-time position offers a unique chance to work under the mentorship of Rabbi Shlomo Tenenbaum while engaging in a wide range of rabbinic activities. The ideal candidate will embody Jewish values, possess a profound understanding and practice of Halacha, and demonstrate the ability to connect with and uplift individuals from all backgrounds.
Apply today at arkchicago.org/assistantrabbi.