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from the congregation’s history, which 
includes the 1966 assassination of 
Rabbi Morris Adler on a Shabbat 
morning as he conducted services. 
Because of this, CSZ was perhaps one 
of the first congregations in the nation 
to have to rethink its security needs. 
As Metro Detroit’s Jewish commu-
nity continues to evolve, Starr said 
CSZ’s renovated entryway stands as 
a symbol of the synagogue’s commit-
ment to the past, present and future. It 

is a gateway that invites all who enter 
to become part of a vibrant, enduring 
legacy.

A SPECIAL FAMILY, 
A SPECIAL BUILDING
Starr expressed his appreciation to the 
Lester family. 
“The Lesters are a kind and gen-
erous family in our community who 
understand the importance of Jewish 
leadership and synagogue life. They 
are not only the pillars of our congre-
gation, but they are also leaders in the 

general Detroit community.”
The renovation is part of an ongo-
ing $15 million capital campaign that 
has provided the money to conduct 
renovations throughout the mid-cen-
tury building over the last 12 years. 
The namesakes of the congrega-
tion’s pillar families reflect a history 
of leaders in the Jewish community 
beyond the walls of the Southfield 
congregation. 
The upkeep of a building of its size 
has been done in increments since 
2008. There is not a single part of 

the building, from its kitchens and 
social halls, religious school wing and 
iconic sanctuary, that has not received 
improvements. 
A walk through the building offers 
a visitor a history lesson on the pillar 
families of the congregation who have 
bestowed their generosity not only 
to the congregation but to the wider 
Detroit community. Walking through 
the entryway plaza, one enters the 
Henrietta and Alvin Weisberg lobby, 
which features updated display cases 

OUR COMMUNITY
ON THE COVER

TOP AND BOTTOM LEFT: The newly renovated entryway at Congregation Shaarey Zedek. TOP RIGHT: The Lester family, Matthew, Elliah, Asa and Nicole, stand in front of 
the new entrance plaza. BOTTOM RIGHT: Hazzan David Propis, Matthew Lester, Rabbi Aaron Starr, Nicole Lester, Elliah Lester, Asa Lester and Rabbi Yoni Dahlen.

continued on page 12

continued from page 9

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CSZ

