There were signs of hope towards our objective to return Temple Beth Shalom to an in-shul environment. The governor said that we could reopen with limited occupancy. St. Thomas on the island reopened for limited occupancy masses on June 29. Shirat Hayam started regular Shabbat services.
Then the reports started pouring in from those states that opened contacts before New Jersey did…Florida, Texas, California and Arizona were experiencing record breaking outbreaks of the virus. In fact, 39 states were showing that they did not have the pandemic under control.
The conclusion seemed evident to the Temple Beth Shalom Task Force. We do not have enough information to open Temple Beth Shalom to in-shul services and guarantee the safety of ur congregation. Therefore, and until the Task Force feels that the opening would be safe enough for comfort, our week-end services will continue to be virtual.
The synagogue is fully stocked for a reopening. We have gloves, masks, sanitizers and professional cleaning services on stand-by. When safety is assured we will be able to open expeditiously.
In the interim, please join us on Zoom Friday evenings to Welcome Shabbat. The services start at 6 p.m, but Zoom starts at 5:45 to give attendees the opportunity to “mingle” with friends that they cannot see in person. The service lasts no more than one hour and provides a true Welcome Shabbat opportunity. The service includes the elements of an in-shul service and allows for your healing and memorial prayers.
If you have not participated in a Zoom service, give it a try. We typically have a group of about 20 participants. The invitation is sent by email on Thursdays. If you have email and have not been getting the invitation, please notify Donna by calling the office at (609) 266 0403. If you do not have mail or a computer you can still join in over the telephone. If you need that link each week, call the office at the above number. Your presence will be welcomed.
The key question that all synagogues are facing is, “What will happen on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?” Based on the safety concerns discussed above, the Task Force, as of now, sees no way that we can plan on in-house services.
It is probable that Rabbi Fox and Cantor Abramson will be in the sanctuary, but the services will be virtual. Whether that is on Zoom or a more sophisticated streaming service, is being investigated. (If anyone has expertise in the elements for staging a quality streaming production, your assistance would be appreciated.) Whatever media is chosen, we have the assurance of Rabbi Fox, the Ritual Committee, Cantor Abramson and the Task Force that the services will be appropriate for the solemn occasion. As plans are finalized, you will be kept informed so that you will feel assured that the High Holy Days will be properly observed. You will also receive information on the inclusion of family members and other guests.
The Task Force is available to receive any suggestions or questions you have on Temple Beth Shalom’s response to the virus. Send those to president@seashul.org.
Your physical presence is missed, but your virtual attendance is essential. Please, be with us as we travel through this pandemic.