Dear Shaare Emeth Congregants,
We continue to work to serve our members and the community throughout this difficult time of the Covid-19 pandemic. We would like to update you on our current plans regarding worship, programs, and congregational life.
The Board of Trustees has voted to keep the Temple building closed to public gatherings through December 31, 2020. Though our building remains closed, our congregation, clergy and staff are here for you, as we continue to offer weekly Shabbat evening services online, a wide variety of virtual learning opportunities, and as the work of the congregation continues virtually through the end of the year.
Congregation Shaare Emeth’s vibrant Religious School will begin offering Virtual Religious School this fall. Shirlee Green Preschool and Camp Emeth will continue to be open in accordance with all current Covid-19 best practices. We have also decided to offer the option of life cycle events in the Stiffman Sanctuary, including B’nei Mitzvah services, funerals and weddings with limited attendance. These life cycle events will be limited to the number of guests approved in the most current Congregation Shaare Emeth Covid-19 guidelines for the duration of the pandemic.
Private events, including those in conjunction with lifecycle ceremonies, such as brunches, luncheons, dinners, receptions, and outdoor gatherings, will unfortunately not be possible at least through December 31, 2020. All offices of the Temple will remain open until further notice with limited staffing onsite. There will be no in-person meetings.
We always strive to prioritize the Jewish values of
Pikuach Nefes
h (safeguarding life),
Kol Yisrael Areivim Zeh Bazeh
(demonstrating responsibility for one another) and
Chesed
(profound love and kindness) as we make decisions. The safety and health of all of our members is our greatest commitment, and we believe that this fall will be too soon to safely welcome large numbers of people into our building, given the current projections for confronting this ongoing pandemic.
We know that many of our members, like those around us, are struggling physically and spiritually during this difficult time. We are here for you. We also ask those who are able to remain philanthropic to the best of your ability, and to strive to fulfill your financial commitments to the congregation. We continue to maintain our building and we have incurred many additional expenses during the pandemic. If you are able, we also ask for your support through the Seeds Campaign.
As always, we are here for you, and invite your questions, suggestions and comments.
Stay well and please reach out to us if you or your family needs additional support.
