The outbreak of COVID-19 is challenging us in unprecedented ways. We want to update you on protocols that we are beginning to implement as of this Shabbos.
At this time, there are no known cases of COVID-19 within our shul community. Out of an abundance of caution and after many consultations, the Rov and the Presidium have decided on a number of changes to Shabbos in Yeshurun.
The measures that we are taking are meant to prevent the spread of the disease. At this time there is no recommendation nor request from local health authorities to close down our shul. We understand that our efforts at mitigating the situation through social distancing measures may seem inconsistent at times.
As this is a rapidly changing situation, we will continue to update you with any changes.
- Anyone who is sick or has a compromised immune system should not come to shul.
- Everyone should ensure to practice proper hand washing procedures (as should always be done).
As of now, all regularly scheduled minyanim will meet over Shabbos. In our efforts at social distancing (ie keeping people farther apart and not congregating), the following changes will be in effect for Shabbos:
- The 7:25 Hashkama Minyan will meet in the Beis Midrash and the Eight-Twenty minyan will meet in the Social Hall. This will allow people to spread out as much as possible.
- There will be no Youth Groups or Pirchei this Shabbos.
- There will not be any regular Kiddushim or Shalosh Seudos this Shabbos.
- There will be 3 mincha minyanim Shabbos afternoon, 2:00, 5:30 & 6:15. This will allow people to eat Shalosh Seudos at home.
- The Rov will be giving shiur at 5:45 and will speak at 7:25 instead of at Shalosh Seudos
- There will be 2 maariv minyanim this Motzai Shabbos 7:40 and 7:58.
If you are sick with respiratory issues and a fever you must stay home from shul. If you are at a higher risk of developing a severe case of the virus, you are exempt from davening with a minyan and you should stay home.
According to the CDC the following people should avoid large crowds, especially in poorly ventilated areas: those over age 65, the immunocompromised, and those with chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease and diabetes. We understand that for some people, avoiding minyan is a tremendous sacrifice. However, it is a sacrifice that one must make if there is a legitimate possibility of entering into a life threatening situation.
Following every minyan there will be two perakim of Tehillim said.
We must work together to protect every mispallel and member of the community and we depend upon your cooperation in this effort. These changes will only be for this Shabbos and will be re-assessed next week.
We daven to the בורא רפואות, that this situation should abate leaving these measures no longer necessary. May those who have this virus have a speedy recovery amongst all the cholim in Klal Yisroel.
Rabbi Zev Cohen
Benjy Kandelman and Lance Taxer, Presidents
