Dear Synagogue Member,

Thank you for supporting Shomrei Torah. Above anything else, I wish you, your families and friends health and happiness in the coming year 5782

This letter contains the latest information about Shomrei Torah’s High Holiday plans. If you have already requested tickets and submitted your vaccination card, then your tickets are on their way to you.

Contrary to last season’s practice, this year we will celebrate the holidays by offering the option of both in person or online attendance. I myself look forward to getting together with our religious community. It should be an emotional reunion, marking our ability to stay together during very trying times. But if anyone’s personal preference and comfort level favor online attendance, that option will also be available.

Arriving at this point demanded thought and planning, especially given the complexity of conditions required by the pandemic. I am deeply grateful to HHD coordinator Ivan Gerstein and those working with him who navigated the twists and turns of the advisories and restrictions imposed by the need to stay safe and healthy.

Only vaccinated people will be permitted to enter our building. In order to attend in-person services, please forward proof of vaccination, for you and your guests, to the synagogue office no later than Monday, August 23. Unvaccinated members may follow the services being livestreamed on our internet website. Because the virus places us in uncharted waters this year, there are no assigned seats; take any open seat when you enter the sanctuary.

All participants in the services are strongly urged to wear masks. Seating of unmasked attendees may be subject to certain restrictions to be determined later.

Since children under 12 are ineligible for vaccination, we will hold youth centered worship outdoors under a rented tent. The tent will be hard to miss; you’ll see it as you approach our building. More details about the youth programming will be coming soon. Please continue to check your inbox for additional High Holiday correspondence. Because those attending the outdoor service may be unvaccinated, the use of masks is strongly recommended.

High Holiday Machzors are available to borrow from the synagogue office if you’d like to follow along with the service from home.

These are the procedures we will follow, based on the state of the pandemic and health guidance as of August 10. Although it pains me to temper a New Year’s greetings with layers of do’s and don’ts, I cannot wish away the need for us to take precautions to protect the safety and health of our members.

But to return to the main message, on behalf of the Officers, Trustees and staff of Shomrei Torah, I extend to you all our wishes for a healthy and happy New Year.

Sincerely,
Henry Ramer, President