248-357-5544 | csz.info@shaareyzedek.org
248-357-5544 | csz.info@shaareyzedek.org
We offer a rich mix of activities and observances for all ages, from Religious School to Sisterhood, to young adults and families.
CLICK HERE to practice the Candle Blessings with Hazzan Propis
CLICK HERE for Chanukah Resources from the Shalom Hartman Institute
In the Jewish mystical tradition, with Tu B’Shevat we enter a period of warmth, newness, and possibility! Our clergy lead CSZ’s annual Tu B’Shevat Seder, an hour long exploration of music, mindfulness, and appreciation of the natural world that surrounds us.
CSZ has a lengthy history of hosting our community’s landmark observance, Purim Extravaganza, the event includes a Purim Shipel and children’s costume parade; a Purim Carnival with games, inflatables, DJ and dancing, food for purchase, face painting and more; and a tradtional Megillah reading. Adults have an entertainment experience all their own, after the carnival ends. On Purim Morning, we read the Megillat Esther in our own Sanctuary during Morning Minyan, in memory of Cantor Sidney Rube (z’l).
As we jump from the joy of Purim to the whirlwind of Pesach, CSZ hosts a wide variety of Seders, services, and youth and family events each year. We are your source for information, community involvement and family connection! CLICK HERE for this year’s holiday page.
CLICK HERE to learn about the 3 mitzvot of Passover
The High Holy Days experience at Congregation Shaarey Zedek is, unquestionably, without parallel. This is where our legacy shines brightest.
Traditionally, our sanctuary of more than 2,000 is filled with members of all ages, families and guests. With our clergy robed in white, and our choir under the direction of our Hazzan in front of the magnificent multi-story stained glass windows surrounding our bimah, we cannot help but feel an elevated sense of spirituality.
Join us for reflection, friendship, remembrance, a re-commitment to acts of loving kindness, and an experience that binds us to one another and God in a powerful and transformative way.
We offer a wide array of services and experiences for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, indoors in our matchless sanctuary, and outdoors under the tent on the William Saulson Pavilion. In our shul, there truly is something for everyone.
The final shofar blast at the conclusion of Yom Kippur isn’t the end of the holiday season. CSZ brings you exciting services and innovative experiences, both outdoors in our Sukkah, under our family tent on the William Saulson Pavilion, and online. We blaze new trails with Religious School experiences, Sukkot Open House, Simchat Torah Hakafot celebrations, and musical services for Yom Tov.
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.
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.