Congregation Shevet Achim now has its spiritual centerpiece in place. Congregant Jon Friedman (pictured) designed the Aron Kodesh, or Ark, to hold the synagogue’s Torahs. The Aron, fabricated by gifted woodworker Justin Estby with help from Rich Gilmore, was installed June 8th.

“We have a special building,” said Shevet Achim President Josh Adler, “and now we have an Aron Kodesh to match its subtle beauty. And to think,” raved Adler, “the new Ark looks like it was always there!”

The Aron will be officially celebrated at Shabbat services on Saturday, June 20th. That’s when the Aron, dressed with a gorgeous parochet, or curtain, and reading table cover, will be dedicated in honor of the late Barbara Engelstein by her husband, Jacob, family and friends.

Congregation Shevet Achim, an Orthodox synagogue for all Jews, is located at the center of Mercer Island on Island Crest way.