We are happy to share with you that we will be returning to the Sanctuary for Shabbat services the first Shabbat of August. That is Friday and Saturday August 6 and 7. The services will simultaneously be brought to our homes via Zoom.
It has been a long and challenging sixteen months for all of us. We want to thank you for your ongoing support, caring and understanding. In ways, our community has come out of this trying time stronger and with deeper bonds of affection and caring for each other.
As we return, we realize that we are not yet home free. There are still precautions we must take in order to insure the safety of each one in our community. Our thanks and appreciation to you as we remain vigilant at this time of returning.
In accordance with the Guiding Principles for Reopening of Ohev Shalom of Bucks County that embrace pikuach nefesh and protect the health and safety of our community, the Board of Directors has approved rules for attendance by congregants and their guests at in-person services. These rules will be subject to change as conditions related to COVID-19 continue to improve.
Registration will be required for attendance at services.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own kippah and tallit. There will be no eating or drinking on the premises.
Everyone is expected to familiarize themselves with, and observe, the following policies:
- In order to protect the health and safety of our congregants, we require that congregants and their guests who are eligible, be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to attend in-person services. (Fully vaccinated means those who have completed two weeks since their final recommended dose of vaccine).
- Given that everyone attending is required to and will be vaccinated, wearing a mask is not mandatory. However, those who would be more comfortable with additional protection while attending in-person services are welcome to continue to mask.
Children under 12 years of age who are not yet vaccinated must wear a mask at all times when in the sanctuary and social hall for services.
- Attendees who are not from the same family/household must remain at least 3 feet apart. Attendees should remain in their seats as much as possible.
- Services will continue to be offered virtually for all congregants who cannot or choose not to attend in-person services.
- Prior to entering the synagogue, members and their guests must complete an online questionnaire relating to COVID-19 symptoms and/or exposure or submit to those screening questions when entering the synagogue.
- To protect the health and safety of the congregation members and their guests must observe those health protocols that Ohev Shalom determines are necessary.
- If, after attending services or an event, you are diagnosed with COVID-19 within 14 days of attendance, you must report that diagnosis to Hilary Leboff, synagogue administrator at [email protected].
The above guidelines are intended to protect all members of our synagogue community, but especially those who are the most vulnerable - our seniors and our children under 12. All events and services will continue to be offered via Zoom and/or livestream and we will continue to evaluate changing circumstances and be pro-active in both protecting our congregants' safety and in removing restrictions when they are no longer necessary.
In the coming weeks, we look forward to sharing additional updates, including plans for High Holiday services.
Enjoy the upcoming holiday weekend. Our best for a safe and enjoyable summer.
Warmly,
