COVID-19 AND SERVICES AT CSH

INTRODUCTION

The current science shows vaccination status does not obviate the need for additional safety measures, especially but not only while inside. Thankfully, the rate of hospitalization among healthy vaccinated individuals with strong immunity remains low. However, healthy, fully vaccinated individuals have been testing positive for Covid19 – sometimes with symptoms and even “long Covid”  — and have been transmitting it to others. They in turn put those with more vulnerable immune systems, including some of our members and their family members, at risk of serious illness, and require quarantine of anyone in close proximity.

OUR GENERAL RELIGIOUS OBLIGATIONS

As Jews, we have an obligation to act in the interests of the larger whole, even if we feel a risk is worth taking personally. We have an affirmative religious obligation to do protect the safety of those who cannot be vaccinated, including children. We also have a religious duty to refrain from anything that could contribute to the emergence of variants of the virus, or to over-burdening the medical system.

In addition to our societal obligations, we have particular obligations of care to each other. Safety and comfort is highly personal and contextual; it depends on one’s overall health, tolerance for risk, responsibilities for vulnerable loved ones, etc. None of us fully knows another’s situation, so please don’t take offense or pass judgment if someone else’s choices are more or less stringent than your own. Let’s all be extra considerate and kind, and mindful of the impact of our actions on others.

OUR SPECIFIC OBLIGATIONS AT CSH IN-PERSON SERVICES

  1. Proof of vaccination status is required for all CSH events. Email proof of vaccination to cshpres@gmail.com prior to your first attendance.
  2. Masks (fully covering mouth and nose) are required to be worn at all times when inside.
  3. You may not attend in person if (a) you’re experiencing symptoms of illness of any kind (especially fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, headaches); or (b) you have reason to believe you may be at heightened risk of transmitting Covid19 (e.g., more than fleeting contact with someone diagnosed; or time spent indoors and un-masked with unvaccinated individuals).
  4. Use your judgment and err on the side of safety, being especially mindful of the safety of higher-risk individuals.

In addition, please practice the following courtesies:

  1. Observe 6 feet social distancing sitting or standing at all times indoors; outdoors, ask before sitting or standing closer.
  2. Avoid hugging or shaking hands.
  3. Respond quickly and graciously to any request to put on or adjust your mask, or to add a little distance.

Prayerbooks, kippot and tallitot will be available, but if possible please bring your own.