Written by: Robert Zimman
20210526
Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic we at Temple Israel have tried to base our policies on science and data to protect our members, especially the vulnerable. Our latest revision to our Policy for Reconvening in Person takes into account the most recent science as well as the recently released guidelines provided by the Synagogue Council of Massachusetts.
The revised policy uses the latest data on infection rates in the three counties (Rockingham, NH; Strafford, NH; and York ME) where almost all of our members live. The policy takes into consideration the vaccination status of the individual members as well as whether the activity is inside or outside. As the daily rate of new infections in the community goes down the policy becomes less restrictive, but when the rate rises the policy becomes more restrictive.
The policy covers several areas as follows:
Finally, in order to use data about the rate of vaccination within our congregation we are asking each of our members and visitors to voluntarily and confidentially provide proof of vaccination to the temple office. The benefit of collecting information about the percentage of fully vaccinated members is that it will allow us to further ease restrictions and increase capacity for High Holiday services once sufficient vaccination rate is achieved in the community.
For proof of vaccination you can do one of the following:
The full Updated Plan for Reconvening is accessible on our website along with other Covid-related resources and updates.
As we move forward through this pandemic together, we are grateful that care and caution have been rewarded by no reported virus outbreaks associated with Temple Israel events. As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions. Emails can be sent to Bob Zimman, President of Temple Israel.
L’Shalom,
Bob Zimman
