There will be several emails over the next couple of days about Shabbat services, upcoming activities, and more. This email is about how to use Zoom. Zoom is a video conferencing service that also allows participants to call in with their phone. We will be using Zoom to have meetings, study sessions, and even services in the future.
Everyone can use Zoom. Even if you do not have a computer (or you know someone without a computer), you can use a phone to call in and listen.

Anything new may feel daunting. Therefore, w e are going to have several practice Zoom meetings on Thursday and Friday. If you have not used it before, please sign up for one of the training/practice meetings.

  • If you are going to call in:  Please choose the Thursday, 4 pm session.

  • If you are going to use your computer or smartphone:  Click on the link for the time you prefer. This will take you to a page to register. Then wait for an email from Zoom which will instruct you how to download the program or participate without downloading (see FAQs below).
A Few FAQs
I’ve never done anything like this. Can I make it work?
This “Zoom” service is relatively easy. Meaning, you will be asked to click on a link and download Zoom. The practice session is meant to talk through any concerns and teach you how to use it. OR you can call in the phone number provided, enter an ID number, and then participate with any phone.

Do I have to have a camera on my computer to be able to watch, and if I do have a camera, is there a way to turn it off?
By default (the way we will set up the meetings), attendees can see and hear without sharing video or audio of themselves with anyone. You control whether to turn on your camera or not.

What information do I have to provide when I register?
Some Mount Zion meetings will be done with registration. You’ll register for the meeting with your email, so Zoom can contact you about how to join the meeting. Your email will not be used for marketing or shared with anyone. When registering, what you enter in the First Name and Last Name fields will be shared with the meeting leader and other participants. You can make your name as anonymous as you wish.

Do I have to download anything? Is the download safe? 
Zoom will invite you to download their software to your device or computer. The Zoom app allows you to watch live video and, if you wish, to participate by text chat, voice, and even video sharing. Downloading the software is not required. If you don’t, you’ll still be able to listen to the live conference through your web browser using the “join meeting” link Zoom will email you, or simply by dialing a US phone number. You won’t be able to the presenter and the other participants, nor participate in discussion, unless you choose to download the Zoom software.
THREE OPTIONS FOR LEARNING ABOUT ZOOM. CHOOSE ONE.

1. Thursday, 1 pm facilitated by Shai Avny – In advance, click here to register . After completing registration, an email will give you the link to join tomorrow at 1 pm.
 
2. Thursday, 4 pm facilitated by Rabbi Spilker – This is the one to choose if you are calling in. From your phone call 312-626-6799. You will be asked for a Meeting ID. Type in 105 255 921 followed by “#”. You will be able to enter the meeting.
  • If you are using your computer or smart phone for this meeting, click here to join 10 minutes before the start to give you time to get ready. No registration required.
 
3. Friday, 10 am facilitated by Michael Kuhne - In advance, click here to register . After completing registration, an email will give you the link to join on Friday.

If you have any questions, please email our Administrative Coordinator Kelly Kelzenberg at office@mzion.org . If you have any questions about accessibility, please be in touch.