Ono Ethiopian Expert Addresses Detroit’s First Conservative Synagogue

In the framework of his North American lecture tour, Rabbi Dr. Sharon Shalom, the founding director of Ono Academic College’s International Center for the Study of Ethiopian Jewry, spoke at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, the first Conservative Jewish Congregation in Detroit, founded in 1861.

Rabbi Dr. Shalom’s address, was entitled, “Against All Odds: The Ethiopian Jewish community as a Healing Force in the Multicultural Israeli Society.” It was well attended, and generated fascinating questions and riveting conversation.

For more than 150 years, Congregation Shaarey Zedek has been an important focus of Jewish life in the Midwest.  Currently in Southfield, Michigan, the synagogue building, designed by Percival Goodman, is one of the most breathtaking places to worship in the country with magnificent, multi-story stained glass windows and a soaring sanctuary ceiling.

Rabbi Dr. Shalom was excited to meet Detroit’s Jewish community and leaders and looks forward to maintaining the new relationships he developed.