Shalom.
I write to you at a time of great uncertainty in all of our lives, as they’ve been upended by a public health crisis unprecedented in our lifetimes. Our children are home from day care centers, grade schools, and colleges; our workplaces require remote work; and our local restaurants, theaters, and fitness centers are closed. I’m writing this column on March 18, but it’s impossible to predict what our lives will be like when you read this April Shofar column.
Although the synagogue building is physically closed to public access for now, rest assured that Temple Beth Tikvah remains open as your spiritual home on the shoreline. Our staff are ensuring all synagogue business is getting done; our clergy are ensuring you have access (even if remotely) to services and Torah study; our B’nai Mitzvah students are receiving their tutoring (again, remotely); and our religious school is actively pursuing strategies to engage your children remotely and continue their learning.
We are not alone. The umbrella organization for Reform synagogues, the URJ, is bringing the whole Reform Movement together via a series of videoconferences to provide resources and support to congregations throughout the country. And you – our congregants – are not alone. TBT is concerned with the health, safety, and welfare of every member of this community, and thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, we are reaching out to every congregant to ensure they are well and if they have needs we can work to fulfill. If you have not yet been contacted, or if you need a helping hand, or just someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to let the TBT Office, the Rabbi or Cantor know. Rest assured that TBT will be there for you.
Let’s hope and pray for easier times in the months ahead. May your celebration of Passover be meaningful in whatever form it can take.
Jeff Babbin