When the COVID plague began in March, many congregations scrambled to provide services online using technology such as Zoom, Facebook, and Youtube. This was a tremendous challenge. The economic disparity that made it difficult for children from low-income homes to learn online because they lacked computers and high speed internet, also prevented their families from connecting to their places of worship. They were cut off and isolated. Fortunately, we research out to our community. Family members patiently taught elders how to get online.
Over the spring and summer, we held our Passover seders online. We counted the Omer and celebrated Shavuot together online. We even held a virtual graduation service online in June. As we enter the fall, many of our congregations are planning to reopen while maintaining safety protocols. Chief Rabbi Funnye has resumed services at Beth Shalom Bnai Zaken in Chicago. He said, “our people are slowly returning. Everyone understands and accepts the fact that we can’t kiss and hug on Shabbat like we use to.” Many of the New York congregations plan to reopen after Labor Day. Rabbi Yehsurun Levy said that Beth Shalom in Brooklyn have made arrangements for social distancing in their sanctuary. Rabbi Sholomo Levy said that Beth Elohim will do the same. Most plan to continue broadcasting their services online for people who are at high risk of infection and for those who don’t feel safe yet.
Plans are being made to hold Tashlic services at the river for Rosh Hashanah / Yom Zikron. We thank everyone for their patience and support through this long ordeal. May this dreadful plague end soon.