Our Story
Keter Torah Synagogue
In 1917, Jacob and Judith Chicorel arrived in Detroit, gathering the few Sephardic families in the city for the very first Sephardic High Holiday Services in Michigan. Jacob, a 21 year old talented Hazan, trained in Izmir, Turkey, brought his passion and talent to Michigan. This marked the formation of the Sephardic Community of Greater Detroit, which warmly embraced every immigrant wave from various Middle Eastern countries.
For 85 years, the community rented social halls, schools, and store fronts to host their Holiday parties and High Holiday Services. However, in 2002, with the invaluable support of the BenEzra brothers, Sam & Nancy Shamie, the Salama Brothers, the Chicorel family, Dr. David and Laurette Levadi, the Tisdales, Eli and Phyllis Rashty and others, the Sephardic Community of Greater Detroit finally realized their dream of establishing their own Kehila, Keter Torah Synagogue, in West Bloomfield, Michigan.
Since then, the synagogue has flourished, becoming a vibrant communal hub deeply rooted in our cherished Sephardic heritage. Situated in the heart of West Bloomfield, MI, it has become an essential part of the community's cultural and spiritual life. What began as a spiritual refuge for a small group of local Sephardim has blossomed into a sanctuary embracing individuals from diverse backgrounds, contributing to the rich tapestry of our shared Sephardic culture.
Keter Torah Synagogue is more than a house of worship. It is home to the Ari Nissim Levadi Main Sanctuary, the Shamie Family Social Hall, and the Gabriel Salama Library. Each of these spaces has been carefully designed to foster a unique sense of community and spiritual enrichment. From lively discussions and classes to quiet reflection, the Synagogue offers a multitude of opportunities for personal growth and community involvement.
At Keter Torah, our congregants serve as our Hazzanim, leading us in tephilla with melodies and Maqamat passed down from Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Syria, , Spain, and beyond. These harmonious melodies create a symphony of unity, connecting us to our shared heritage and inspiring moments of spiritual reflection.
Outside of religious services, Keter Torah Synagogue offers a variety of social and cultural events. From our annual Mediterranean Night Dinners and holiday parties, known for their legendary homemade Sephardic delicacies, to enlightening Hebrew language classes, our synagogue fosters lifelong learning and shared experiences. These events and classes have made Keter Torah not just a place of worship, but a dynamic cultural and educational center, where every member has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to our vibrant community.
Keter Torah Synagogue is not just a building, but a vibrant community where every member contributes to the rich tapestry of our shared Sephardic heritage. We warmly invite you to join us and experience the warmth, the tradition, and the vibrant community that is Keter Torah Synagogue.
Ari Nissim Levadi Sanctuary: where an atmosphere of holiness envelops you, inspiring awe and reverence. The sacred space echoes with the melodic prayers & Pizmonim, forging a deep connection with Hashem.
Shamie Family Social Hall: This inviting gathering place is filled with the joyful sounds of laughter, lively conversations, and the harmonious clinking of glasses raised in celebration during Shabbat. It is here that our community unites, creating bonds of friendship and camaraderie that span across generations.
Gabriel Salama Library: It is a place where our congregants delve into the profound teachings of the Torah, enriching their understanding and strengthening their spiritual journey.
