March 8, 2022 – Update to our COVID Policy

3.8.22

 

There has been a decline in Covid 19 cases, positivity rates, and hospitalizations over the last few weeks. Further, Jefferson County, Alabama, has been removed from the “High Risk” list.  Though Covid and its variants will likely be with us for some time, we do feel that our community has been successful with decreasing restrictions, thus our committee makes the following recommendations.

  1. Temple Beth El may resume open services, classes, meetings, and events with full attendance.
  2. Vaccination for all those eligible to receive the vaccine is strongly recommended. However, we suggest that all unvaccinated members consider attending via Zoom/ live streaming rather than in person.
  3. Masks and distancing are now optional for those in the building (attending services). However, note that the balcony and a small section on the main floor of the sanctuary is set aside for those who wish to mask and distance – and designated as such. Please respect these boundaries. Please mask and practice social distancing if you sit in these areas.
  4. Masks are also optional on the bimah, including those called to the Torah. Participants in the service may now stand on the bimah together without distancing (all may be near the Torah reader).  For those who prefer to distance, you may stand on the floor by the bimah during your part of the service.
  5. Torah processional can resume. Members can choose whether or not to approach the Torah during the processional.
  6. Food service can resume. A “to-go” option will be provided for congregants who do not wish to eat in the building.
  7. We ask all members and guests to notify TBE if they test positive after being in the Temple.
  8. Minyan may resume in the small chapel, as long as Zoom/ live streaming is available. If not, we recommend that Minyan remain in Sanctuary.
  9. We recommend all programming be made available by Zoom.
  10. Meetings and study groups can resume in person with Zoom availability.