248-357-5544 | csz.info@shaareyzedek.org

Congregation Shaarey Zedek
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Rabbi Yonatan Dahlen

rabbidahlen@shaareyzedek.org

Rabbi Yonatan Dahlen grew up on the prairies of northern Iowa, fell in love with Jewish thought and philosophy in college on the plains of South Dakota, and deepened his commitment to text, tradition, ritual and history at Brandeis University and at the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City (with a couple of years in Italy and Israel along the way). 

Advocating for a Judaism filled with emotional honesty, communal and individual introspection and meaning, and judgement-free wrestling with text and tradition, Rabbi Dahlen sees his spiritual leadership as a sacred responsibility to bring holiness into everyday life.

His passion for that mission is expressed throughout the Shaarey Zedek family as well as throughout Metro Detroit. Whether it be on the bimah, in the classroom, the local hospitals and assisted living facilities, or any number of coffee shops and start-ups around the city, Rabbi Dahlen is firmly committed to bringing the beauty of Jewish life and learning to anyone, no matter where they are on their Jewish journey.

Rabbi Dahlen is the liaison to Rimonim (adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s), the Green Team, the Social Action Committee, the Inclusion Committee and Alternative Minyanim.

Ready to take the next step (or maybe the first step) in your Jewish journey? Shoot Rabbi Dahlen an e-mail, text, or phone call today – the first cup of coffee is on him!

 

In This Section

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.