OCTOBER 10 • 2024 | 9
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riving along Northwestern Highway, one sees the silhouette of Congregation 
Shaarey Zedek’s striking Mount Sinai-shaped sanctuary, one of the most 
prominent in Metro Detroit. Completed in 1962, it is an architectural mar-
vel designed by Percival Goodman, one of America’s most prolific Jewish architects, 
who designed more than 50 synagogues between 1948 and 1983. 
Looking ahead, congregational leaders and visionaries have put their resources 
into the entryway of the building, dedicated this summer as the Nicole and Matthew 
Lester Entrance Plaza. Lester is a Jewish Federation of Detroit past president.
As I sat down in his office, Rabbi Aaron Starr explained the importance of putting 
resources into lovingly restoring this part of the building. It may be where a visitor 
spends the least time, but it is the first part of the synagogue a person encounters. 
Beautifying this area is fitting of the congregation’s name. After all, Shaarey Zedek in 
English translates to “gates of righteousness.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CSZ

“Our entrance symbolizes a gateway that represents 
our commitment to God, Torah and Israel, as well as our 
desire to care for the Jewish people and those in need,” 
Starr explained. “It is supposed to enhance our righ-
teousness in multiple ways. From a practical standpoint, 
this entryway’s transformation has blended 
enhanced security features with a beautiful, 
welcoming design.” 
Designers and the congregation wished the 
entryway to inspire and embrace visitors upon 
entering and leaving. Plaza innovations includ-
ed the restoration of the 60-year-old concrete 
bridge-like structure built parallel to the cir-
cular drop-off driveway. The pavement of the driveway 
has also been renovated and smoothed. A curb has been 
added as well as handicapped parking spaces to meet ADA 
compliance. 
An open, glass-ceilinged overhang has replaced the 
aging and flat portico to shelter congregants and guests 
from the elements as they await their cars after a simchah 
or community event. New landscaping foliage softens the 
grounds on either side of the entrance of the mid-century 
building. 
“This entryway is the gateway to so many facets of 
Jewish life,” Rabbi Starr says. “Whether someone is pas-
sionate about prayer, education, Israel or acts of loving 
kindness, this entryway represents multiple entry points 
into our vibrant community.” 
The new entryway features double-door entrances, a 
dedicated security room, and an array of security cam-
eras and exterior lighting — all crucial updates in an era 
of heightened concerns, based unfortunately, Starr said, 

A nighttime view of the entry plaza
CSZ often serves as a place for the community 
to gather, such as the post-Oct. 7 vigil, where 
attendees danced to show their love of Israel.

JOHN HARDWICK

Rabbi 
Aaron Starr

continued on page 10

