Dear Friends,
For the last two years we have had to make difficult decisions as a community to protect the health of our members and staff. The Temple's Covid Task Force, consisting of three physicians, one of whom is a pediatrician, lawyers, HR professionals, ELC and Religious School parents, Temple members, and the Clergy and Senior Staff, has been navigating a complicated path forward as we reopened our schools, returned to in-person services and programs, and reintroduced Friday night Onegs after services, all while increasing our capacity to provide remote options for those that could not attend programs at the Temple due to health or other concerns.
At this time, we are ready to announce that beginning on Thursday, March 31st, Temple Shaari Emeth will be "Mask-Optional" for all programs. We are announcing this transition now to ensure that people are aware of this change before coming to the Temple. This decision reflects current health statistics which are resulting in lower hospitalization and death rates, and a decreasing infection rate, as we move from pandemic to endemic. Moving on, we will continue to monitor these factors and make future decisions accordingly, including reinstating required mask wearing if conditions warrant. We will continue to practice social distancing at services as we advance into this new phase.
During this new phase of Covid-19 please respect the health and personal decisions of others by reserving any judgements you may have. We all have different health needs and personal comfort levels that must be respected. Jewish values teach us kindness and the importance of respect for differences within the community. Also, please avoid coming into the building if you have any cold symptoms. If you must enter the building when ill, please wear a mask to protect others. Masks will continue to be available at the Temple and we anticipate that everyone will be responsible and respectful of others. Also, please remember that proper hand washing is always recommended. We have hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the building.
Understanding that after living with Covid-19 for over two years it may take some extra time for people to feel comfortable coming into the building, we will continue to livestream services and include online participation for programs when possible. One good thing One good thing that we have discovered during the pandemic is that there were changes that created new ways for people to connect.
To remind everyone about measures we have implemented since the beginning of the pandemic, we have:
- installed air cleaners in the HVAC system serving the Sanctuary and Social Hall that clean the air (including viruses) every 30 minutes;
- placed medical-grade HEPA air cleaners in every office and classroom that clean the air every 20 minutes;
- reviewed and made changes to our building cleaning chemicals and methods to assure that we are doing all we can to protect everyone from the transfer of viruses and germs.
We thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding as we've navigated through these difficult times. We will continue to monitor the issue going forward and advise you of any changes that become necessary, and masks may be required for specific events.
