248-357-5544 | csz.info@shaareyzedek.org
248-357-5544 | csz.info@shaareyzedek.org
Like any great story, ours starts with a strong beginning.
Founded in 1861, Congregation Shaarey Zedek was the first Conservative Jewish Congregation in Detroit, and one of the founding congregations of the United Synagogue of America (now United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism).
From 1962 to the present, Congregation Shaarey Zedek has been based in Southfield, Michigan. Our synagogue building, designed by Percival Goodman, is one of the most breathtaking places to worship in the country. Magnificent, multi-story stained glass windows surround our bimah within a soaring sanctuary ceiling – a perfect setting for a tradition of world-class clergy, inspiring sermons, pitch-perfect cantorial excellence, moving simchot and an elevated sense of spirituality.
A summary of our history was prepared for the 150th-anniversary celebration.
Learn more about our history here.
The Lillian & Professor Samuel Levin Archives at CSZ contain more than a century of photographs, documents, memoirs and artifacts which tell the story of our illustrious congregation throughout the years. Our collection celebrates the legacy of our synagogue, its Rabbis and its members, showcasing their impact on local, national and international Jewish history. Our Archives have been cataloged, digitized and preserved, proudly safeguarding the treasures of our past for future generations.
If you would like access to our Archives or donate to our collection, contact Cillia Kleiman, Associate, Lillian & Professor Samuel Levin Archives of Congregation Shaarey Zedek. Contact her at 248.864.5095 or at archive@shaareyzedek.org.
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.