Updated Congregation Neveh Shalom Covid-19 Policy
Dear CNS Kehillah,
From the very beginning of the pandemic, CNS leadership decisions have been based on the balancing of 3 principles:
- Medical expertise and science – listen and learn from the CDC, OHA, ELD, County Health, and CNS’ Medical Advisory team of physicians.
- Jewish Values – understanding our responsibility to “Pikuach Nefesh” – to preserving the health and safety of all in our kehillah.
- Commitment to Community – belief in the importance and value of continuing to provide opportunities – ritual & spiritual, educational, cultural, and social – through all platforms and modalities possible to help our congregational community to feel connected and supported.
Constant and consistent evaluation and decision-making have been ever-present since Purim 2020. As we approach another step in this journey, Rabbi Posen reminds us that guidance from Hillel’s teaching in Pirke Avot, Ethics of our Ancestors can help:
- If I am not for myself, who will be for me? As reopening continues and programming returns to our building, not all will be comfortable. We encourage you to make decisions that feel appropriate for you and your family. Your choices will be respected.
- If I am only for myself, what am I? The policies, protocols and decisions made by CNS leaders must necessarily prioritize the needs of the many. Each of us will be challenged to be sensitive to acknowledging our own sensitivities and limitations while appreciating the expanding opportunities for others in our broader community.
- And if not now, when? There will never be the perfect time for each change and decision. The criteria we have looked to point to opportunity today.
Health
You should only come to the CNS building if you are feeling healthy.
- Do not come to CNS if you’re feeling ill.
- Do not come to CNS if you have COVID – including being asymptomatic.
Masking While at CNS
Masking in the building and on our campus is optional though encouraged, including Shabbat and holiday services.
- We know that some, if not many, will continue to wear masks. That choice is welcomed and respected.
- There may be other programs and activities (i.e. focused on a “vaccine ineligible” or health compromised audience) where a mask requirement decision will be made and communicated.
Vaccination
- Vaccination is strongly recommended for all who will be in the CNS building for more than 15 minutes.
Physical (Social) Distancing
CNS will continue to be sensitive to physical distancing in seating/room set-ups for services, education, and programming.
Food
We are happy to be reintroducing and including food service at Neveh Shalom.
Continuing Monitoring
Of course, the CNS leadership continuously monitors the latest COVID-19 developments and recommendations and reserves the right to make changes to these updated protocols at any time. CNS has strived to meet or exceed the public health recommendations during the pandemic and will continue to do so in the coming weeks and months.
