We Can Do This
We Can Do This
From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon
This past week, Beth Israel’s COVID Taskforce met to review what we can know about COVID-19 and its breakthrough variants, including Omicron. We care about your well-being, and we take very seriously the partnership between faith and science. Having weighed the data and the norms of our congregation and community, the Beth Israel Taskforce, under the guidance of Dr. Ed Septimus and Dr. Jenny Guss, who have wisely led us to this point without incident, have recommended the following guidelines through January 8, 2022:
- If you’re unvaccinated, join us by livestream or Zoom, for worship and programs.
- If you’re vaccinated and boosted, if you’re eligible, wear your mask over mouth and nose in the Temple, including the sanctuary, Gordon Chapel, and Wolff-Toomim Hall.
- If you’re at Shlenker School or MBJLC, always wear a mask over mouth and nose.
Last Friday night, many of you wore your masks, voluntarily, and some of you said to me, “Don’t close the building.” These three simple guidelines will enable us to spend time together without closing the building or halting programs. Though we’re not closing the building, community spread is high again, and we’re asking you to work with us and to do your part.
This Friday night, December 24, 2021, is Christmas Eve, and we want our Christian staff and livestream crew to be with their families to celebrate. Therefore, Shabbat services on Friday evening will be ZOOM ONLY. Please register at our website to receive the Zoom link.
As Shabbat comes, let’s hold onto the principle that only in life can we do a mitzvah; and only in life can we enjoy the blessings we’ve been given. It’s not our privilege to take risks that challenge our Jewish obligations to save life and to live the best life we can. As Talmud teaches, “Don’t put yourself in a dangerous place and then pray for a miracle.” Let’s do this together and look ahead to life, good health, and peace in 2022.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach us at Beth Israel, 713-771-6221, or info@beth-israel.org. We care about you and the future we will share.
L’Shalom,
