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Dear congregants:

As we enter the fall and winter months with COVID-19 still with us, it seems that this pandemic has begun to increase again nationally. While we all long for the normalcy we had before this virus hit our shores, the reality is, we still have a long way to go.

I mention this because our most potent weapon to fend off this terrible disease is to follow the strict protocol from the CDC and local government, along with the wisdom of our Jewish tradition.

While we all miss the wonderful onegs, kiddushes and potluck Shabbatot from the last few years, that reality simply is not possible. So let me be clear and unambiguous: Going forward, we simply cannot serve food at services and other events until this pandemic is over. It is simply not safe while we are still threatened by COVID-19.

As a synagogue and a Jewish Community Center, we must honor the tenants of shmirat ha-nefesh (to protect life) which mandates to put the wellbeing of our entire congregation first.

I am extremely proud and inspired by our Temple’s strength, courage and cohesiveness during this crisis.

You may bring your own bottled water to an outside Shabbat service or event. Bathrooms will still be available inside the Temple.

With God’s help and our community’s ingenuity, creativity and caring, we will continue to go forward, together.

In friendship,

Rabbi Steven Rosenberg

Mitchel Karp, Temple President