Jews are a communal people. They come together to pray, to celebrate and to mourn. To be Jewish is to innately belong to a community of people who take joy and find strength in coming together and congregation beth shalom.
Perhaps nothing illustrates the desire for Jews to share in this way. More than the congregating of Jews observing. The High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Furthermore every year, Jews from all around the world find their way to a synagogue to partake in these sacred days. As a result amidst the current pandemic. Challenges to this traditional style of worship are certain to impact the way many of us choose to spend their High Holidays.
CyberSynagogue
CyberSynagogue offers the full experience of Rosh Hashanah. And Yom Kippur in a virtual setting; utilizing a safe, intimate and welcoming spiritual environment. You can join us from the comfort of your own home, without the need to search for a parking spot or a good seat.
Indeed, even as the United States begins efforts to restart its economy, a broad range of Jewish leaders have agreed that synagogues should be among the last institutions to reopen, wherever they are. In order to adhere to the Jewish doctrine of pikuach nefesh, which mandates setting aside religious obligations in order to save a life.
While CyberSynagogue is already established as an online place of worship and learning. The health and safety of all is and always will be a top priority. Thus, lending additional credence to the concept of virtual High Holiday services, especially during this time of uncertainty.
There are practical considerations. Too — none weighing on rabbis more deeply than the dangers of singing. Which studies are showing can spread the coronavirus at alarming rates. Even singing with masks on is possibly unsafe. Then there are shofars, the ceremonial ram’s horn blown at climactic moments in the High Holiday services.
No scientist has actually measured the dispersal of coronavirus in aerosol droplets shooting forth from a hollow ram’s horn. But at least one study found that vuvuzelas — the plastic horns from the 2010 World Cup in South Africa — can “propel extremely large numbers of aerosols” that can lodge deep inside the lung.
Congregations congregation beth shalom
The High Holidays are fast approaching. And there will most definitely be a need to accommodate. Those wishing to take part in communal prayer and reflection during these days of Awe. Congregations and spiritual leaders will be challenged to find innovate ways to meet the needs. And of their congregants in a safe and meaningful way.
CyberSynagogue fully embraces these challenges as a virtual, globally-accessible synagogue. CyberSynagogue is committed to breaking down the barriers of time, finances, circumstances and distance by offering a safe. The nurturing environment in which to pursue a fulfilling spiritual experience to anyone who desires it.
This year, 2020 (5781), CyberSynagogue is excited to announce that High Holiday services will be offered virtually. And with a suggested minimum donation of $36.00 per person, welcoming all who wish to join us.
Family and friends will be able to come together as Rabbi Shore guides us through the traditional liturgy in prayer and song. We at CyberSynagogue, hope to see you there! More information to come soon along with congregation beth shalom.
