A Message From Our President - Looking Ahead
Dear Fellow Congregants,
Now that Gov. John Bel Edwards has issued an updated proclamation, which lifts many of the restrictions of the statewide stay-at-home order, I want to share with you the steps Shir Chadash is taking toward a gradual reopening. Phase 1 of the state’s reopening applies to places of worship, which will be limited to 25 percent of the building’s occupancy rate. Places of worship should adhere to strict mitigation standards and follow guidelines for social distancing, safety, health and hygiene.
As I wrote previously, we have begun conversations about what a “new normal” might look like for Shir Chadash. From the beginning, our approach has been to stay calm, focused and make prudent decisions that are in the best interests of our community. I ask for your patience as we forge ahead in a changing world.
At the outset of the pandemic, we created a Health Committee. On May 11, the Health Committee provided a set of preliminary recommendations regarding a gradual resumption of onsite religious services to the synagogue’s Board of Directors. We need to take some time to carefully consider the recommendations and to develop and implement myriad health and safety, physical workspace and security protocols. Rabbi Silver and the Ritual Committee have begun to examine ritual options for Shabbat morning services and the High Holidays, using recent guidance from the Committee on Jewish Law and Standards. We must anticipate a different experience of community informed first and foremost by the mitzvah of taking care of and for each other.
We hope you will understand and support our preparations over the coming weeks. In the interim, we will continue to offer an array of meaningful and engaging services and programming virtually. When we do return to onsite services, the environment may be different; yet, it will retain the warmth of our community.
We will continue to keep you informed as we get closer to a specific date when it is safe to resume in-person religious services. Among the most important factors for a physical reopening are the health, safety and well-being of congregants and synagogue staff.
A strong, flourishing community navigates challenging times together. Although it won’t be easy and there is much work to be done, I firmly believe the Shir Chadash community is up to the challenge. We are a strong, compassionate, resilient and deeply committed synagogue. Let’s keep reaching out to each other, checking on each other and helping each other through this unprecedented experience.
I wish you and your family good health. Be well and stay safe.
Ken Klein
President
