COVID-19

Our Building Re-Opening Task Force, which has guided synagogue policies during the pandemic, continues to closely follow the recommendations of the CDC as well as consulting medical experts in our congregation and the community.  If you are feeling sick, please do not attend our programs or services until you are well.  If you think you may have Covid-19, please use the CDC self-assessment tool found here to determine when you may safely come to the building.  

At our last meeting of the Building Reopening Task Force, we reviewed the status of the pandemic in Ohio and our current pandemic related procedures. After evaluating the facts and the situation today, we do not believe that the vaccination requirement is increasing the safety of our members, which has always been our top concern.  People who are both vaccinated and even double-boosted are getting the virus and are contagious to others. The Task Force has made the decision to eliminate the vaccination requirement, effective immediately.  

The vaccine requirement has been lifted, effective immediately.  Masking is optional.
Please practice social distancing so that everyone feels comfortable attending services. 

 
We still strongly recommend that everyone who is eligible and able to receive the vaccine get vaccinated and boosted. We also recognize that some members remain unvaccinated and have made that choice for themselves and/or their children or have been medically unable to be vaccinated.  In an effort to address the concerns of members who are still cautious, we will continue to have the Benchell Balcony mask requirement, to place tables outside whenever possible for kiddush and congregational meals for those who prefer to eat outdoors and continue to stream and Zoom services.  

All services and some events continue to be accessible by Zoom and stream for those who do not yet feel comfortable returning. It is, however, our hope that the precautions we continue to take will make you feel safe enough to join us physically in the synagogue. Nothing takes the place of praying and celebrating in the same room with others, seeing them physically present with you. Coming to synagogue again will lift your spirits and nourish your soul. 

Minyan breakfast has resumed, with socially distant seating available for those who choose to stay. Shabbat onegs and kiddushes offer individually wrapped cakes and cookies as well as socially distanced seating available for those who want to eat. 

If you have any questions regarding synagogue policy, contact  Jay Ross.