IMPORTANT MESSAGE/COVID UPDATE
As we step away from Tisha B'Av and look forward to Rosh Hashanah, we are sobered by the recent increase in Covid-19 cases in Florida. As widely reported, these cases are primarily arising in unvaccinated individuals. There is a clear link between the recent surge in cases and a large unvaccinated community. In Florida, the rate of vaccination is around 50%, which is less than ideal in combating this pandemic. We highly recommend that each of us be vaccinated against COVID-19. It is the most effective preventative for this potent disease and helps to save lives.
Within our CSK community, we are bound by halakah, Jewish law. The CSK Covid-19 Task Force has met regularly during the past few months. Based on recommendations from medical professionals and in light of the increase in cases, we have determined that it is appropriate to return to certain of the stringencies previously observed. In particular, our religious services will be open only to those who are fully vaccinated. Unfortunately, this policy excludes the children of our congregation. We are hopeful that the surge will soon abate so that religious services may be opened to all in our community.
The phrase Achreiot Zeh al zeh B’Kehelah אחריות זה על זה בקהילה - We are each responsible to one another in the community - is apt for us today. A Responsa by Rabbi Prof. David Golinkin dated January 20, 2021, explains that there is a halakhic obligation for Jews to vaccinate themselves and their children unless their doctors determine that it is dangerous for that specific person to be vaccinated due to a pre-existing condition. Similarly, it is halakhically permissible for a school or a synagogue to enact a requirement that one must receive a vaccination and to prevent an unvaccinated person from entering a synagogue or a school. Recognizing the obligations of one to another in our CSK community, CSK now requires those who officiate and attend religious services to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
We thank you for your understanding of this important step in our community. Please take care of yourself and our community by vaccinating against Covid-19.
Sincerely,
Ariella Reback, Covid Task Force Chair
Martin Radnor, President
Rabbi David Baum
