By MARK HIGGINS
SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER REPORTER

A spiritual side is apparent in Wedgwood as well. Its churches and synagogues are strong, stabilizing forces in the community.

In January, Congregation Beth Shalom celebrated the $1.6 million remodel of its synagogue. Dozens of congregants gathered at the North End Jewish Community Center for a Sunday procession down 35th Avenue Northeast to the synagogue.

It is a Jewish tradition to form a procession and carry the torah scrolls, a synagogue's holy scripture, to celebrate the opening of a new synagogue or, in this case, a beautifully remodeled one, says Rabbi Dov Gartenberg.

Among those marching and singing was former City Councilman and Congressman John Miller, a member of the 30-year-old synagogue. The 375-member congregation also includes Starbucks Chief Executive Howard Schultz.

Once inside the synagogue, the procession evolves into a joyous celebration, with church leaders and others dancing with the torahs in a circle, while the congregation sings and claps.

"It's wonderful for us to have a building that is not only beautiful but will fit our needs," says Brad Spear, who soon joined the circle of celebration. "We are all very happy and grateful."