We look forward to joyful celebration of the High Holy Days with our Beth Ahabah family, with both in-person and virtual options this year. The Jewish value of pikuach nefesh, protecting human life and well-being, has guided all of our worship and gathering decisions. As we prepare for our High Holy Days, we have been monitoring the new Delta variant of the coronavirus and considering the most recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state and local health agencies, and our own medical experts. Given the health concerns posed by the variant, our Return to In-Person Events Committee has approved the following safety protocols for High Holiday attendance. Please note that these new protocols apply only to High Holy Day services given the increased level of attendance expected.
VACCINATION
To provide the safest worship environment possible, all congregants and guests attending in-person services inside the building must be fully vaccinated (defined as two weeks after the second dose in a two-dose series or two weeks after the first dose in a single-dose vaccine). Proof of vaccination status will not be required as we have faith in the integrity of our congregants and guests. Although this requirement precludes in-person attendance for unvaccinated adults and children not yet eligible for vaccination, our continued dedication to offering livestreamed services provides a safe alternative to experience the holidays. Our Young Family Services at 9:00am on both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur will be virtual only and feature exciting and festive programming (you will have to tune in to see and hear for yourself!). Also, our Tashlich service on Rosh Hashanah afternoon will be outside and fun for the whole family!
MASKS
Following CDC guidance, all congregants and guests attending in-person services must continue to wear a mask while inside the building. Although vaccinated individuals are significantly protected against the Delta variant, they can still carry and spread the virus – masking helps us all look after one another. As both quality and fit of masks are important to deter the spread of the virus, we encourage all attendees to wear a form-fitting, three-layer mask of their choice or a new surgical mask which will be provided at all services.
SEATING
The Sanctuary will offer both non-distanced seating areas and seats designated for social distancing so that individuals attending services may choose to be seated according to their needs or preferences.
SCHMOOZING
Please feel free to exit after services and schmooze with your friends and family in the fresh air just outside the Sanctuary. Although we will not be offering food service this holiday season, we will be offering some holiday to-go goodies on Rosh Hashanah to welcome in a sweet new year.
Our commitment is to protect everyone in our congregational family and in the greater community. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we all work together to guide our congregation forward. Our clergy, staff, lay leaders, and medical professionals are closely monitoring the spread of the virus and the Delta variant. We will continue to update our protocols as necessary following guidance from public health officials, medical experts and our own judgement to ensure a safe Sanctuary. Again, thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued dedication to health, welfare, and safe worship at Beth Ahabah.
Shana Tova!
Let Us All Have a Good, Sweet New Year!
Click HERE for the High Holy Days Schedule
Click HERE for the CCAR Resolution on COVID-19 Vaccination
Congregation Beth Ahabah
1121 West Franklin Street
Richmond, VA 23220
