Dear Temple Emanu-El family,

This past week has been hard. Violence entered both our Providence community and Jewish family in the same 24 hours and, for many of us, our sense of safety has been rocked.

We want you to know that caring for each other is a central priority of our community. In response to the realities of the world we live in, especially since the shooting at Tree of Life, we have spent years thoughtfully strengthening our security. Some of these measures are visible, others are not, but all are undertaken with care and intention: reinforcing entrances, engaging professional security officers, consulting with experts, requiring advance sign-ups from guests, installing cameras, and conducting safety drills. This work is ongoing, and we approach it with seriousness and responsibility.

At this time, we want to gently remind you of our existing security procedures. Not to frighten you further, but to empower you. While these protocols are largely unchanged, they will be enforced more consistently at this time. We appreciate your understanding and patience, and we ask that you please read the information below so you know what to expect.

During the week:

• Our entrance on Taft Avenue is our main entry and exit point for most Temple functions. If this presents a challenge for you, please be in touch. We are happy to figure out an appropriate accommodation on a case by case basis.
• Access cards are required for entry into the building. If you need a new card, please click here.
• If you do not have an access card, please ring the doorbell; you will be asked to show identification before entering.
• Please refrain from holding the door open for others, particularly if you do not know them. Instead, allow each person to use their access card or ring the doorbell. We know this goes against everything our parents taught us about being polite, but it’s crucial. Please say something like “I’d rather you swipe in,” and know you’re helping keep everyone safe.
• Our security personnel will not be opening the door. Please use your card or ring the doorbell.
• During minyan, only designated persons will be allowed to buzz people in.

On Shabbat Mornings:

• For most Shabbat functions, our primary entrance is the Main Sanctuary doors (on the corner of Sessions and Morris). If this presents a challenge for you, please be in touch. We are happy to figure out an appropriate accommodation on a case by case basis.
• Non-Members must register in advance at this website and bring identification with them on Shabbat.

Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and partnership in helping Temple Emanu-El remain both a warm spiritual home and a secure one. We are grateful to be part of a community that looks out for one another.

With care,

Rabbi Michael Fel, Senior Rabbi

Rabbi Alex Friedman, Rabbi

Paul Stouber, Executive Director

Jeff Levy, President

Rick Reamer, Chair of the Safety and Security Committee