High Holy Days Message

Updated High Holy Day Protocols (As of Friday, August 6, 2021)

Our first priority whenever we gather is your health and safety. We remain committed to enabling everyone who wants to come into the building for High Holy Day services to do so. Given the rise of the Delta variant and the higher volume of attendees we expect for High Holy Day services, we want to make sure we gather in a way that is safe and responsible. We also know that many of you were waiting to hear about our COVID protocols before deciding whether or not to attend in person. After consulting with our medical advisors, the CAI Reopening Task Force approved the following protocols for High Holy Day services:

1. Proof of vaccination will be required when entering the synagogue building for the main service, the highlights service led by Susan Werk and Erica Rabner, and the contemplative service with Karen Frank.

2. Masks will be required for ALL attendees (with the exception of those leading the service while they are speaking or chanting, if they wish).

3. Chairs will be arranged to allow for some spacing in the sanctuary service.

While we recognize that this means that children under the age of 12 will not be able to attend the main services, there will be a variety of family and children’s programming available, both inside and outside. Stay tuned for more information coming from our Education Department about these options.

While we had hoped that this year’s High Holy Day services would feel more normal, we believe these precautions are appropriate given the continued risk of COVID transmission. We hope that whether you choose to join in-person or virtually, that these High Holy Days will be a meaningful beginning to a year of life and good health for all of us.

Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.