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Rabbi Goldstein's November Message

When Will We Be “In-Person” Again?

What a wonderful experience it was to be together in person over the high holidays! Even masked, even without sharing honey cake, even having to come early to check in and fill out COVID screening, we all felt a sense of holiness in finally hearing voices raised together in prayer. And what a wonderful experience it was to share that on zoom as well, to see the hundreds of faces that were praying in their homes as if they were right with us in the sanctuary. 

These “experimental” in-person services led us to think carefully about when and how we can regather again, while recognizing that not everyone is able or ready to gather in person. We are cognisant of the intense amount of planning, work, research and financial outlay they demand, and we are concurrently thinking about the kinds of online and remote programming we can continue to offer based on both staff preparation time, financial resources, and communal sensitivities. We must also pay attention to the diverse needs and opinions in our community, on everything from how much technology to allow in services to the presence of our wonderful but unvaccinated children. 

Heartened by the recent progress of COVID-19 vaccines across Toronto and declining infection rates, and grateful for the science that has brought us to this moment of optimism, we have struck a Re-Entry Task Force made up of congregants, physicians, and staff to look into this important question. I ask your patience as we ponder. We promise to keep you informed. As your Rabbi, please know how much I miss seeing all of you, and equally how much I want to keep all of you safe.

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