Congregation Shir Tikvah celebrates 36 years.

Judy Greenwald Contributing Writer
Photos by Eli Shapiro

Congregation Shir Tikvah (CST) in Troy, the metro area’s only Reform-Renewal synagogue, celebrated its 36th (double chai) anniversary recently with a two-day gala themed “CST: Now and Forever.”

Karen Sage, longtime congregant and one of the event organizers, noted the festivities began on Friday, Nov. 9, with a special service led by Rabbi Aura Ahuvia and Rabbi Emeritus Arnie Sleutelberg.

Eli Shapiro

Rabbi Aura Ahuvia and Rabbi Emeritus Arnie Sleutelberg celebrate Shir Tikvah’s 36 years at a Nov. 9-10 anniversary gala in Troy.

Highlights included Board President Rich Spitzer and numerous past presidents parading around the sanctuary with the Torah scroll, the introduction of a new siddur, reading of proclamations from the Oakland County Commissioner and the city of Troy, and the telling of CST’s formation by two Troy-area moms in a parking lot, a favorite moment of the evening.

The celebration continued Saturday evening, Nov. 10, with a Havdalah service, a strolling dinner, a photo booth to capture memories, and singing and dancing.

“So many folks came up to me on Saturday to say what a wonderful time they were having,” Sage said. “It was great to see everyone dressed for the occasion — lots of ‘sparkles!’”

Sage said the celebration will continue at noon on Sunday, Dec. 9, with a “Double Chai-nukah” party, and a fun run/walk (3.6k) is scheduled for the spring.

“What makes us special is teamwork, cherishing each other and spiritual vitality,” Reb Aura said. “There’s an excitement, a sense of warmth and connection that happens when our prayer lives, volunteer lives and social interactions are infused with joy and pride. That’s what I value about serving CST and why I look forward to building our future together.”