Earlier in the year, we had hoped that we might be able to have in-person services after Sukkot. Unfortunately, too many people – including elected leaders – did not follow the recommendations for controlling the spread of the virus. Under the metrics developed by the re-opening committee, we have been forced to suspend in-person operations at the shul. Until things improve sufficiently (which we hope will be sooner rather than later as the vaccine rolls out), there will be one person plus Edgar in the building.

I know it’s tough. We had an outdoor Zoom Bar Mitzvah in December. The family had hoped to hold it in the sanctuary with a small number of people, as we had done on a couple of other occasions. To be able to have a minyan more safely, it was held outdoors so that viral load from an undetected infection would not accumulate as it would in an enclosed space. The health and safety of our members and staff is paramount.

I imagine that most of you feel the way I do: 2021 can’t come soon enough. However, I hope it will not come so soon that you miss the chance to respond to our Eighth Day of Chanukah campaign (and take advantage of 2020 tax deductions). See the latest “This Week at Etz Hayim” email for details.

Have a safe, socially distanced New Year’s Eve. As always, you can write me at president@etzhayim.net.