Join the Family!

Shaarey Zedek members are a true community. We work together in partnership to advance a holy mission of learning, service, prayer, and familial responsibility. We celebrate with one another. We take care of one another. We challenge and better one another. When you invest in us, we invest in you, because that is what it means to be mishpachah (family)!

Benefits of Belonging to CSZ:

  • Lifecycle Services

    Access to CSZ clergy for all of your simchas and moments of need (such as weddings, brit milah and baby namings, funeral and shiva officiation, unveilings, b’nai mitzvah, and other moments of joy or consolation).

  • High Holy Days and Prayground Tickets

    Access to all CSZ High Holy Day services, including the Prayground and digital streaming and recordings.

  • Priority and Discounts:

    Early access and reduced prices on all CSZ programs, events, classes, and offerings.

  • Building Rentals

    Beautiful space options for simchas, parties, gatherings, and more.

  • Keeping Jewish Life and Learning Vibrant in Metro Detroit:

    Congregation Shaarey Zedek has been a leader locally and nationally for more than 160 years. Your contribution allows us to keep growing, teaching, and inspiring the next generation of Jewish Detroiters.

  • Going Beyond Yourself:

    Investment in this beautiful and sacred family creates and expands on something bigger than all of us. It brings holiness, friendship, and commitment. It brings healing and comfort. It solidifies you as an indispensable and invaluable spark of our ner tamid, eternal flame. You have so much good to give, and we can’t wait to welcome you home!

Multiple discounts available on dues. 

  • Membership is free for people under the age of 30 
  • All first-year member dues are $180 
  • Members receive steep discounts until they reach the age of 40.
  • Members who are also members of another congregation get a 50% discount on their dues with proof of membership. 

We do not believe that finances should stand in the way of membership at CSZ. If you have any concerns, please reach out to us and we will work with you. 

Curriculum

Our curriculum is written for our school by our Rabbis and Director of Youth and Family Learning. Each grade level has specific goals and learning targets that encompass the following areas:  

Learning and practicing Jewish rituals, holidays, and ethical actions, emphasizing how these observances connect individuals to Jewish tradition and community. 

Fostering a connection to Israel by exploring its geography, history, and significance as the Jewish homeland. 

Centering on learning and understanding Torah stories, characters, and teachings, and applying their lessons to daily life. 

Emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior, acts of kindness (Gemilut Chasadim), and fulfilling obligations like Tzedakah (charity). 

Exploring the meaning and practice of prayer, teaching students how to communicate with God and understand the significance of different prayers. 

Focusing on learning the Hebrew alphabet, vocabulary, and basic reading skills to engage with Jewish texts and prayers. 

Each grade level explores these themes through engaging and age-appropriate lessons. Teachers use a variety of teaching methods and resources, including the Chai Curriculum. 

Staff

We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of professional Jewish educators. Our teachers receive weekly planning time, during which they use our curriculum and learning goals to craft engaging lesson plans. They benefit from regular coaching and feedback from our Director of Youth and Family Learning and participate in ongoing professional development throughout the year. Our educators are passionate about their students and committed to their growth and success.

Family Programs

Throughout the year, we invite families to celebrate with us! Parents, grandparents, and siblings are welcome to join us for special Religious School mornings filled with music, food, and community celebration as we observe holidays such as Sukkot, Tu B’Shevat, and Passover as a school community. Families and students are also encouraged to attend our weekly Shabbat services, where we offer youth activities for children of all ages. Participating in Shabbat helps our students connect their learning and apply it in a congregational setting, fostering a deeper connection to our synagogue community.