About Us
The Downtown Synagogue envisions itself as a broadly inclusive, responsive, and welcoming institution, one in which all are encouraged to discover and explore Judaism in a safe and welcoming environment. It offers a venue for contemplating the many facets of Judaism, historically and contemporaneously. It provides a hub for meaningful engagement and collective action in support of the Jewish community as well as the general community of Metropolitan Detroit.
The principal mission of the Downtown Synagogue is to serve as a beacon for the entire Jewish community of Metropolitan Detroit by maintaining an egalitarian synagogue, rooted in Jewish tradition and affirming of pluralistic practice, in downtown Detroit. It encourages inter-generational engagement and promotes broad-based participation by offering a wide range of programming and acting as a conduit for Jewish activity in the city. It is committed to supporting the revitalization of Detroit; and assuring accessibility to all.
OUR VALUES
ACTION • HUMILITY • PLACE-BASED • COURAGE TO LEARN & HAVE DIALOGUE • KEHILA/ABUNDANCE • DIVERSITY & INCLUSION • KINDNESS & COMPASSION • INTEGRATING RITUAL & ACTION
downtown synagogue in the news
downtown synagogue launches ‘the sam’ to honor samantha woll’s legacy
DETROIT (Detroit Jewish News) – In August 2023, Samantha “Sam” Woll z”l stood in front of more than 400 people gathered on Griswold Street and did what she always did: she made everyone feel like they belonged. She was wearing a bright blue dress that matched the synagogue’s iconic stained-glass windows. It was the grand reopening of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue — a celebration of a $7.5 million renovation years in the making — and Sam, then serving as our president, was at the center of it. Read Full Article