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A New Normal
During the pandemic, synagogues adjust policies for masks, vaccines and distancing.
TEMPLE EMANU-EL
LOUIS FINKELMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
ADAT SHALOM
TOP: The bimah at Congregation Shaarey Zedek. MIDDLE: Stained glass at Temple Emanu-El. BOTTOM: Shiffman Chapel at Adat Shalom Synagogue.
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NOVEMBER 4 • 2021
haina Shevin Warshay moved from the Detroit suburbs to Israel. She reports that the shul she goes to regularly has outdoor services. “Over a certain number of people, and we are required to mask,” she adds. In subtropical Israel, even in the cool rainy season, people can usually stay outside long enough for services; many synagogues have an outdoor service, a “street minyan.” Warshay adds: “The other shul we had been frequenting is still having indoor services. Masks are nominally required. We have not been going lately because it would require getting the kids tested each week so they could come inside.” Michigan has real winters. Synagogues in Michigan have generally had to decide what rules to set for indoor services. Dr. Leonard Pollack — a pediatrician who attends the Young Israel of Oak Park — reports that it has a reopening committee, which he chairs. “We regularly review recommendations from both medical and rabbinic sources and modify the policy based on the situation existing at the time.” So, subject to change, Young Israel of Oak Park has the following policy: “Masks are mandatory for those (including children) who have not had at least one dose of the J&J vaccine or two doses of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine with the last dose being at least two weeks ago. Masks are highly encouraged for everyone who is fully vaccinated at all times except for when eating. In addition, all services provide a section for those who prefer to be in a mask-only, socially distanced section. In addition, anyone with symptoms or a significant exposure is instructed not to attend services, even if fully masked and immunized. Every morning (weekdays, Shabbat and Yom Tov) we have two minyanim in
order to allow for less crowding. The larger minyan meets in the main sanctuary which allows for greater distancing.” Dr. Pollack says, “Our minyanim have been averaging at least 80% masked since we instituted the present policy. A survey of our regular attendees showed that of the people over age 16, approximately 90% are immunized.” MASKS AND VACCINES Rabbi Aaron Bergman reports that, at Adat Shalom Synagogue in Farmington Hills, “We require masks for everyone in the building. We strongly recommend vaccines but have not yet decided on proof of vaccination. We are large enough so people can distance appropriately. We are also still Zooming services as an option.” At the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism in Farmington Hills, Rabbi Jeffrey Falick says, “Our rules for in-person programs, which include our Sunday school, Friday night services and at least one upcoming class, are that everyone eligible must be ‘fully’ vaccinated and wear masks in public areas. We also have air filters and reduced capacities in all program areas.” For further information, Rabbi Falick recommends checking the website, which lists COVID safety measures, including: “Guests who are not members may be asked to show proof of vaccination. Masks are required for everyone in public areas.” However, according to the website, “At congregational events where a meal is served, when seated at a table participants may eat and drink without masks.” The congregation allows for special advance arrangements at some events for those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. The congregation also “will place ventilation units (with HEPA filters) in all occupied program areas.” Rabbi Matthew Zerwekh says Temple Emanu-El in Oak Park is
