It has been a while since we sent a TBH-specific COVID update as we have settled into this temporary new normal of virtual services and programs. Now, as vaccines are being distributed and thoughts of reopening are on our minds, the Board and Rabbi have been discussing future plans and wanted to share our latest thoughts and a community survey.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have followed the CDC and the Governor’s Office for guidance on how to carry on while mitigating the spread of COVID-19. And since the beginning, in keeping with the Jewish value of pikuach nefesh (saving a life), we have taken a conservative approach. While we are technically allowed to gather in limited numbers, the protocols around cleaning, masking, distancing, prohibition of singing, and attendance limits has made this less than desirable and practical. Plus, the limiting of participation of those older or ill raised ethical questions for us.
Moving forward, we still maintain a commitment to following the directives of the Governor’s office. And we still maintain a more conservative approach for the sake of safety and equity. We anticipate that as the vaccine rollout continues, that guidance will change, and we will continually reevaluate our practices. And we know that numbers are also not necessarily promising, and certain counties have moved back from Phase 3 to Phase 2. Currently, Thurston County is in Phase 3.
As we move forward, we invite your feedback on the reopening of in-person programming at TBH. If you intend to participate in TBH events or services within the next few months, please take a moment to complete the survey available here and at the bottom of this email. All responses are anonymous.
In the meantime, we wanted to share our thinking and plans as of now:
All services, events, study groups, and meetings will remain virtual.
To take advantage of the beautiful summer, the desire to gather, and the low transmission rates outdoors, we are planning on having outdoor services this summer in our parking lot! Services will be held outdoors on the first and third Fridays of the month, and more details will follow as we get closer. All outdoor events will follow masking and distancing guidelines, as per the Governor’s order. In order to make these events happen, we will need volunteers for set up, break down, and on-site safety monitors. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Kayla at tbh@bethhatfiloh.org.
Rabbi Seth is now fully vaccinated. Depending on circumstance, the rabbi will be available for in-person pastoral visits and appointments with others who are vaccinated. We do not plan on opening up office hours yet, appointments are still required. And please do not drop by the Temple unannounced!
If there is any assistance TBH can provide, including finding vaccine appointments, please be in touch with Kayla in the TBH Office.
While we look forward to the day we return in person, we have learned over the past year that it is not a building that makes a community. In many ways we have drawn closer together and stronger as we have weathered this pandemic together. Thank you for your openness, your strength, and your commitment. It is a blessing for us to serve in leadership of this Jewish community, and we wish you a healthy and happy summer!
