COVID-19 Updates
Covid Update - March 4th
We have been monitoring the significant reduction in Covid-19 transmission within our local Washington Heights zip codes as well as in the greater NYC area.
As such, the following updates to our Covid policies will take effect this Shabbat March 4-5:
· We will be making the wearing of masks optional for all kids attending Shabbat groups. This mask optional approach is in response to NY State having lifted its mask mandate for all public schools students, regardless of their vaccination status, and is consistent with the current policies of the overwhelming majority of Modern Orthodox day schools in the NY/NJ area.
· If you are over age 5, but are not fully vaccinated, you are required to wear a mask during davening. Davening will remain mask optional for all fully vaccinated individuals. All individuals who wish to wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status, are encouraged to do so.
· We will continue having a mask-only section in the Main Sanctuary. Please do not sit in this section if you are not masked. Individuals who wish to wear masks are welcome to sit in the mask only section or in the unmasked section.
· We wish to remind you that if you have COVID-19 or any symptoms that may be related to COVID-19, you may not attend davening or any in-person events at MSJC.
We thank you for your cooperation and we will communicate any changes made to these policies in the future.
Covid Update - Feb 18th
Kesher note update:
· We will return to our mask optional policy for fully vaccinated individuals for all minyanim.
· Children 2-11 who are not fully vaccinated may only attend davening if they are able to mask properly.
· We encourage all those eligible to get a booster to do so as soon as possible.
· As a reminder, you may not attend MSJC if you have suspected symptoms of COVID-19 including fever, sore throat, cough, body aches, runny nose or diarrhea.
As we hit the 2 year mark of instituting Covid policies at MSJC, we thank Hashem for keeping us safe and healthy. We also want to thank our members for their continued support.
Covid Update - Feb. 10th, 2022
In response to Governor Hochul rescinding NY State’s mask mandate, we will return to our mask optional policy for fully vaccinated individuals effective today February 10th.
Anyone over age 12 attending davening and kiddush at MSJC must be fully vaccinated. Children ages 2-11 who are not fully vaccinated may attend davening if they are able to properly mask. As the weather warms up we will resume offering kiddush options both in the social hall and on the sukkah porch. We ask that not fully vaccinated children eat outside when the weather permits.
In order to have a masked davening option on Shabbat mornings, Hashkama minyan will remain masked for all attendees for the time being. Shluchei tzibbur and Ba’alei kriah may unmask if they wish to do so.
For the remainder of the month of February all kids groups will remain masked regardless of vaccination status.
If you or someone in your household (family member or roommate) test positive for Covid-19, please reach out to office@mtsinaishul.com so we can advise you how to proceed and offer any assistance we may be able to provide.
Lastly, we encourage all those eligible to get a booster to do so as soon as possible and we remind you that you may not attend MSJC if you have suspected symptoms of COVID-19 including fever, sore throat, cough, body aches, runny nose or diarrhea.
As we mark 2 years since we began instituting Covid policies at MSJC we wish to express our gratitude to Hashem for keeping us safe and healthy, and our appreciation to our membership for your support and encouragement. We hope and pray that we will continue to see a full return to normal in the coming weeks and months ahead.
Most Sincerely,
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes, Rabbi
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
Ari Senderowicz, President
Ari Rieser, Vice President
Shani San Solo, Recording Secretary
Shira Bindiger, Financial Secretary
Gilad Kopelman, Treasurer
COVID Update Dec. 22nd, 2021
Dear MSJC Community,
We are writing to update you of a change we are making to our COVID policy effective tomorrow, Thursday, December 23rd.
Given a significant increase in COVID-19 cases in NYC, (including among people who are fully vaccinated) we are instituting that everyone MUST fully mask (except Baalei Tefillah and the Rabbi during his sermon) when attending davening at MSJC. This policy applies to both weekday and Shabbat davening and will be in effect until Friday January 7, 2022. We will continue to monitor the situation and will update you regarding our COVID policies at that time.
We are continuing to require that everyone attending davening or in person events over age 12 show proof that they are fully vaccinated. Children ages 5-11 may only attend davening if they have received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine.
We anticipate that in the coming weeks NY State will be updating the definition of being fully vaccinated to be limited to people (assuming they are eligible) who have received a COVID booster. We therefore encourage everyone over age 16 who is eligible for a booster to get one as soon as possible. There are also indications that this year’s flu season is significant and we encourage everyone to get a flu shot as well.
Click here for a list of vaccination and testing sites in our neighborhood.
We wish to remind you that we cannot guarantee zero transmission of COVID-19 at MSJC and that if you feel ill with possible COVID symptoms you may not attend davening or events at MSJC until you get a negative test.
If you test positive for COVID-19 you may not attend MSJC until 10 days have passed since the onset of symptoms, and you have not needed to use fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours. We ask that you inform the Shul office as soon as possible if you have tested positive and attended MSJC within 48 hours of a positive test or the onset of your symptoms.
Additionally, we will be holding our upcoming Q4 General Membership Meeting over Zoom rather than in person. The meeting will still take place this coming Sunday, December 26th at 10am. The Zoom meeting information will be sent out to all members in good standing on Saturday night, December 25th.
Voting on the proposed Constitutional amendments (see our 12/18 email for details) will be done electronically. An email with a link to an electronic ballot will be sent out to those in attendance at the meeting. If you would prefer a paper ballot, please email office@mtsinaishul.com or call 212-568-1900.
If you are unable to attend the meeting and would like to designate a proxy to vote on your behalf, please email office@mtsinaishul.com
or president@mtsinaishul.com with the name and email address of your proxy.
In the past 10 days we are pleased to report that we have received proof of vaccination from over 250 people in our community. If you haven’t yet uploaded proof, please do so here.
We thank you for your continued support and cooperation.
Most Sincerely,
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
Ari Senderowicz, President
Ari Rieser, Vice President
Shani San Solo, Recording Secretary
Shira Bindiger, Financial Secretary
Gilad Kopelman, Treasurer
COVID Update Dec. 15th, 2021
December 15, 2021
Dear MSJC Community,
Since our shul reopened in June of last year we have relied on our membership to follow our Covid policies and to partner with us as we navigate through this challenging pandemic. The goal of these policies has been to protect the health and wellness of our congregants and congregation and to be in compliance with the current recommendations of the CDC and our local health departments.
B”H these policies have been effective and we cannot thank you enough for your incredible support and cooperation these past 18 months to help ensure our shul continues to function on a daily basis. We are asking for your continued assistance to help us safely and responsibly grow our shul and community as we enter 2022.
Please be aware that in response to the recently updated NY State Department of Health guidelines we are requiring that everyone attending weekday and Shabbat davening at MSJC adhere to the following policies:
- All individuals over age 12 attending davening or kiddush at MSJC MUST be fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated means 2 weeks have passed since you received the second dose in a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series or one dose of the J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. If you are 18 years or older and 6 months have passed since your second shot, or 2 months since your first J&J/Janssen shot, we urge you to get a booster as soon as possible.
- If you are over age 12 and are not fully vaccinated, you MAY NOT attend davening or kiddush at MSJC even if you are wearing a mask.
- Children ages 5-11 must have received at least one vaccine shot in order to attend davening. They must continue to mask until 2 weeks have passed since their second vaccine shot.
- Children ages 5-11 who have not received at least one vaccine shot may not attend davening even if they are masked.
- Children ages 2-4 may attend davening if they are able to properly mask. Children under 2 may attend davening and are not required to be masked.
- Anyone over age 5 attending davening must be able to provide proof of vaccination. You can do so either in person with Mirasha Moore during office hours or upload a picture of your vaccine card here. If you have already provided us with proof, you do not need to do so again. If you are unable to provide proof of vaccination, you are not permitted to attend davening.
- Children’s groups, programming, and kiddush: In order to maintain a consistent policy for our Shabbat groups and kids programming we are instituting that regardless of vaccination status all children over age 2 attending our Shabbat groups or kids programming must properly mask. On Shabbat, following 9am Minyan we will be setting up a separate kiddush in the gym for families with children under 12 and we will space tables apart. We urge that parents supervise their children in the gym and make sure they do not wander around upstairs during davening or kiddush.
- We will continue to monitor developments with the Delta and Omicron variants and will communicate any changes to our guidelines. Unless updated, these above policies will be in effect for weekday and Shabbat davening at MSJC from December 15, 2021 - January 15, 2022. For all other events taking place at MSJC we will announce the specific COVID policies and guidelines that we will require attendees to comply with.
We wish to remind you that if you have COVID-19 or any symptoms that may be related to COVID-19, you may not attend davening or any in-person events at MSJC until 10 days have passed since a positive test or the onset of your symptoms. We look forward to welcoming you back when you are feeling better.
If you have any questions about these policies, please email officers@mtsinaishul.com.
Most Sincerely,
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes, Rabbi
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
Ari Senderowicz, President
Ari Rieser, Vice President
Shani San Solo, Recording Secretary
Shira Bindiger, Financial Secretary
Gilad Kopelman, Treasurer
COVID Update - Dec 13th, 2021
Dear MSJC Community,
We are writing to share these important changes to our COVID policies. In accordance with the recently updated NY State guidelines we are instituting the following policies for weekday davening effective Monday, December 13, 2021:
- All individuals over age 12 attending weekday davening at Mount Sinai Jewish Center MUST be fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated means 2 weeks have passed since you received the second dose in a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series or one dose of the J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. If you are 18 years or older and 6 months have passed since your second shot, we urge you to get a booster shot as soon as possible.
- If you are over age 12 and are not fully vaccinated, you may not attend weekday davening at MSJC even if you are wearing a mask.
- Children ages 5-12 must have received at least one vaccine shot in order to attend weekday davening. They must continue to mask until 2 weeks have passed since their second vaccine shot.
- Children ages 5-12 who have not received at least one vaccine shot may not attend weekday davening even if they are masked.
- Children ages 2-4 may attend weekday davening if they are able to properly mask. Children under 2 are not required to mask.
- There will be a sign in sheet at the shul entrance area for everyone attending weekday davening to sign in and attest that they are fully vaccinated.
- After davening, please stop by the office and show Mirasha Moore proof of vaccination. Once we have a record of your vaccination status you will not need to sign in or provide proof.
Unless updated, these above policies will be in effect for weekday davening from December 13, 2021 - January 15, 2022.
We are discussing what our policies will be for Shabbat davening and we will send out an update later this week.
We wish to remind you that if you have COVID-19 or any symptoms that may be related to COVID-19, you may not attend davening or any in-person events at MSJC until 10 days have passed since a positive test or the onset of your symptoms. We look forward to welcoming you back when you are feeling better.
We thank you for your cooperation!
The MSJC Officers
COVID Update- Dec. 2021
Dear MSJC Community,
We are writing to share these important changes to our COVID policies. In accordance with the recently updated NY State guidelines we are instituting the following policies for weekday davening effective Monday, December 13, 2021:
- All individuals over age 12 attending weekday davening at Mount Sinai Jewish Center MUST be fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated means 2 weeks have passed since you received the second dose in a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series or one dose of the J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. If you are 18 years or older and 6 months have passed since your second shot, we urge you to get a booster shot as soon as possible.
- If you are over age 12 and are not fully vaccinated, you may not attend weekday davening at MSJC even if you are wearing a mask.
- Children ages 5-12 must have received at least one vaccine shot in order to attend weekday davening. They must continue to mask until 2 weeks have passed since their second vaccine shot.
- Children ages 5-12 who have not received at least one vaccine shot may not attend weekday davening even if they are masked.
- Children ages 2-4 may attend weekday davening if they are able to properly mask. Children under 2 are not required to mask.
- There will be a sign in sheet at the shul entrance area for everyone attending weekday davening to sign in and attest that they are fully vaccinated.
- After davening, please stop by the office and show Mirasha Moore proof of vaccination. Once we have a record of your vaccination status you will not need to sign in or provide proof.
Unless updated, these above policies will be in effect for weekday davening from December 13, 2021 - January 15, 2022.
We are discussing what our policies will be for Shabbat davening and we will send out an update later this week.
We wish to remind you that if you have COVID-19 or any symptoms that may be related to COVID-19, you may not attend davening or any in-person events at MSJC until 10 days have passed since a positive test or the onset of your symptoms. We look forward to welcoming you back when you are feeling better.
We thank you for your cooperation!
The MSJC Officers
COVID update - Oct. 2021
Dear MSJC Community,
We are closely monitoring the significant number of breakthrough cases that have occurred this past week on Yeshiva University’s campus. In light of our community’s geographic and social proximity to YU, we wanted to take this opportunity to reiterate our policies and recommendations in order to help limit further potential spread.
We strongly recommend that all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask when attending davening at MSJC, particularly on Shabbat when we have more people attending davening for longer periods of time.
If you are unvaccinated, regardless of antibody status you must wear a mask at all times indoors at MSJC.
This Shabbat we will be leaving more windows open to increase ventilation and we will open the front of the social hall for added seating and social distancing.
If you have been in close contact with someone who recently tested positive for COVID-19 or are experiencing any symptoms that may be due to COVID-19, we ask that you not attend davening or any in person events at MSJC until you get a negative test.
If you have recently attended a MSJC event and have tested positive for COVID-19 or if you have any questions or concerns about these policies, please reach out to us at officers@mtsinaishul.com.
We will keep you informed should there be any further updates to our policies in the future.
Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom!
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes
Ari Senderowicz, President
Ari Rieser, Vice President
Shani San Solo, Recording Secretary
Shira Bindiger, Financial Secretary
Gilad Kopelman, Treasurer
COVID Update - May 2021
Since we first closed shul on March 13, 2020 and B”H reopened nearly one year ago, the leadership of MSJC has been in regular contact with our safety and security committee and our medical advisory board. We are indebted to them for helping us create and maintain a safe environment at MSJC.
In light of new guidelines from the CDC and in consultation with our medical advisory board we are pleased to announce the following updates to our COVID-19 policies:
1) Unless otherwise indicated, masks are still required to be properly worn at all times at MSJC by all attendees, whether or not they are fully vaccinated.
2) Social distancing during davening between non-household members will be reduced from 6 feet to 3 feet and we will be adding more chairs on both sides of the mechitza this Shabbat. We will be updating the available spots on our sign up form and we ask that you continue to register for all in-person davening.
3) Rabbi Taubes will be unmasked when he speaks from the pulpit beginning with his sermon this Shabbat morning.
4) The safety and security committee will be in contact with individuals who are fully vaccinated and wish to give shiurim on Shavuot unmasked. Everyone else in attendance must remain masked.
5) When called to the Torah for an Aliyah the Oleh will now be able to stand at the Bima next to the Ba’al Koreh, provided both are properly masked.
6) We will be resuming two person hagbah and gelilah.
While we realize these are relatively small changes, we hope that this will begin a gradual return to normal at MSJC. We thank you for your cooperation as we continue to monitor recommendations made by NY State and the Department of Health. We will keep you informed of any further changes made to our COVID-19 policy in the future.
We are still reviewing the results of our recent survey and we thank everyone who responded and shared their feedback. We will update you with the results in the coming weeks.
Wishing everyone a Shabbat Shalom and upcoming Chag Sameach!
The Officers of MSJC
COVID Update - Nov. 2020
MSJC COVID-19 Updated Guidelines
November 3, 2020
The MSJC Safety and Security Committee in consultation with our medical advisory board has adopted the following policies to ensure the safety and well-being of all those attending in-person MSJC events during the COVID-19 pandemic. While we cannot guarantee zero transmission at MSJC, we feel that adherence to these guidelines will greatly reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading in our shul.
1) You may NOT attend in-person MSJC events if you:
- Have any of the following symptoms: fever greater than 100.4 F, cough, shortness of breath, headache, body aches, nausea/vomiting, or loss of smell or taste.
- Tested positive for COVID-19 or have had an undiagnosed illness with similar symptoms within the past 14 days.
- Had close contact with or were exposed to someone with COVID-19 within the past 14 days.
2) Please sign-up online prior to attending in-person MSJC events.
- We advise anyone who is immunocompromised, over the age of 65, or in a higher risk category (e.g. hypertension, diabetes) to consult with their doctor prior to attending in-person MSJC events.
- Children under 12 may attend MSJC davening if they are able to stay seated next to their parent while properly masked.
3) While in the building:
- You must wear a mask over your mouth and nose and maintain social distance at all times.
- The bathrooms and rest of the building will not be accessible on weekdays when Shalom Yeladim preschool is in session.
4) Travel Policy:
Effective Wednesday, November 4, 2020 NY State has updated its travel restrictions and quarantine policies as follows:
- Travelers who were in another state other than NJ, CT, PA, MA, or VT for more than 24 hours will now be able to test-out of the previous mandatory 14 day quarantine after their return if they observe ALL of the following 3 measures:
a) Obtain a negative (non-rapid) COVID test within three days of their departure from the state they are returning from.
b) Upon their return to New York, the traveler must quarantine for 3 days.
c) If the traveler obtains a negative (non-rapid) COVID test on the 4th day after returning, then (and only then) they may leave quarantine and attend in-person MSJC events.
If a traveler does not fulfill the above 3 criteria, they then must observe a full 14 day quarantine.
- Travelers who were in any other US state for less than 24 hours do not need to obtain a negative COVID test prior to their departure from the other state, and do not need to quarantine upon their return to NY.
- Travelers who return from ANY country outside of the U.S. must observe a full 14 day quarantine before returning to MSJC events. At this time, there is no early test-out option for international travel.
If you have any concerns or questions about these regulations please contact security@mtsinaishul.com.
Most Sincerely,
Sam Benson, Ari Rieser, Gila Stadler - MSJC Safety and Security
Dr. Ayelet Hilewitz & Dr. Alon Kol - MSJC Medical Advisory Board
COVID-19 Update - Sept. 2020
Dear MSJC Community,
We want to inform you that someone who attended MSJC on Friday morning, September 18, has tested positive for COVID-19. This particular congregant was sitting in the social hall and the only other person davening near him was at a distance of more than 8 feet for less than 15 minutes. Both congregants were properly wearing masks the entire time. There were no women davening in the social hall at that minyan. The congregant who tested positive did not participate in Hatarat Nedarim and has not been in shul since. Thankfully his symptoms are mild and he is quarantining at home.
Aside from MSJC, we are seeing a slight rise in COVID cases in the broader Washington Heights community. As such, we wanted to take this opportunity to remind you that you need to sign up here before attending any of our minyanim. This is a critical step in our ability to keep you safe.
Based upon Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order yesterday, our group of medical advisors have recommended we clarify our travel policy as follows:
If you have traveled in the past 14 days to:
- ANY country outside of the U.S. or
- States on the New York travel advisory list (see list below)
you may not attend services or events at Mount Sinai Jewish Center until 14 days after you have returned.
Given our guidelines, including the wearing of masks and maintaining physical distance, and our adherence to those guidelines, the chance of spread within the congregation and to yourself is extremely low. Nonetheless, out of an abundance of caution and a desire for transparency, we wanted to make you aware.
The person sitting nearby has been contacted, and has been advised that no further action is necessary other than to monitor for symptoms as per NYS Department of Health instructions.
We ask for and appreciate your continued adherence to the safety procedures that we have put in place and we are doing our best to reduce the risk of spread within MSJC.
If you test positive for COVID-19 and have attended a service at Mt. Sinai in the past two weeks, or have any further questions or concerns we ask that you contact us at security@mtsinaishul.com.
Most Sincerely,
Ari Rieser & Sam Benson, Co-Chairs MSJC Safety and Security
This list of states is subject to change. For updated information please go to: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory
COVID-19 Update #7
May 20, 2020
Dear MSJC family,
We would like to update you on developing news we hope will enable us to begin reopening our shul.
Earlier today Governor Cuomo announced that beginning tomorrow (Thursday May 21), socially distant prayer services of 10 or fewer people will be permitted in NY State provided all attendees wear masks.
We are aware this is a dynamic situation. At this time we are developing a comprehensive strategy to ensure our reopening will be done in a systematic and responsible manner. We will share the details of this plan with you once we determine it is safe to reopen.
While we realize that davening in shul will likely look and feel different for quite some time, we look forward to being able to enjoy Tefillah b’Tzibbur at MSJC in the very near future.
Most Sincerely,
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
Yehuda Krupka, Naftali Polachek, Naama Levin, Ari Senderowicz
Sam Benson & Ari Rieser, Co-Chairs of MSJC Safety and Security
COVID-19 Update #6
April 3, 2020
Dear MSJC family,
This will be the fourth Shabbat that our shul will be closed due to COVID-19. We will remain closed throughout Pesach and likely for sometime thereafter.
With the continued and significant spread of COVID-19 throughout NYC and beyond, it is crucial that we maintain social distancing between ourselves and others to further reduce the risk of transmitting this virus.
Unfortunately the apex of COVID-19 cases has not yet been reached, and we are living in uncertain and dangerous times. With Pesach starting this coming week, we feel it’s important that we encourage our shul membership and community to continue to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and others based upon current CDC and your specific State guidelines.
We certainly understand the importance of gathering together with family and friends for the Seder. At this critical time, however, we urge you to stay at home as much as possible. We do realize that for a number of people in our community this will mean having seder alone and that this is far from ideal. Please reach out to the Shul leadership if you require assistance with any Pesach needs.
If you are feeling concerned or have any other questions about the upcoming Pesach Sedarim, please contact Rabbi Taubes at rabbi@mtsiniashul.com
Although we recommend against this, if you will be having Seder with other people who do not live in your home, please adhere to the following:
Maintain as much distance as possible
Wear masks (except when eating/drinking)
Do not share food or items (e.g. same serving spoon), and use your own matzah.
Thoroughly wash hands with soap and disinfect any touched surfaces
Some other suggestions we recommend:
Check in on your neighbors and friends before and during Shabbat and Yom Tov
Make plans to take walks with friends outside maintaining appropriate social distancing
Open your window every night at 7pm to join with your neighbors in support of healthcare workers
We pray for the health and well-being and of all those who have been affected by this situation and we hope they will have a Refuah Shlyama.
Wishing the entire MSJC family and Washington Heights community a Shabbat Shalom and a Chag Kasher v’Sameach.
Most Sincerely,
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
The Officers of MSJC
MSJC Safety and Security
COVID-19 Update #5
March 18, 2020
Dear MSJC family,
We are writing to update you on the status of COVID-19 at MSJC.
Some of you may have heard that we have one more person who was at MSJC last week who has tested positive for COVID-19. This is not a surprise and we do expect more in the coming weeks.
This email is being sent out to make you aware that, as in many other communities, COVID-19 is likely at the stage of widespread community transmission. As such, we implore you to adhere to social distancing and to continue to thoroughly wash/sanitize your hands on a regular basis.
Social distancing is so important to getting through this challenging time that we have suspended minyanim and in-person communal Talmud Torah. Please do not look for other minyanim; that defeats the purpose. Avoid crowds, limit communal meals, and to the extent possible you should stay at home.
As stressful as things are, and despite the fact that we cannot get together in person, please know that the MSJC community is here for you. We are providing new distance learning and conferencing programs to continue to do things together. For a full list of these opportunities please go to www.mtsinaishul.com/virtual-programming
You should also be aware that the healthcare system - from ambulatory care centers to Hatzolah and EMS, through the hospital systems - are all working long hours to prepare for the impact of COVID-19. Testing, one of the biggest issues in the past few weeks, is finally coming “on line” and becoming more accessible and faster.
If you are experiencing the following symptoms: fever, cough, and shortness of breath contact your primary care physician. As of now, all local Emergency Rooms and Hospitals have become extremely taxed and are treating an overwhelming number of cases. It may be better instead to go to an urgent care facility. We recommend calling in advance to make sure there are
tests available.
Here is a list of local urgent care facilities:
1. CityMD 617-625 West 181st Street Phone: (646) 346-7922
2. 181 Urgent Care Center 521 W. 181st St. New York, NY 10033 Phone: (347) 756-6000
3. Mount Sinai Doctors-Urgent Care 5030 Broadway New York, NY 10034 Phone: (212) 604-6550
We are also sharing these two important message from the Orthodox Union and the Rabbinical Council of America
1. Stay Home; Save Lives!
During these extremely difficult and precarious times, we again turn to one and all with the clear and unambiguous mandate to heed the guidance of our governments and health authorities regarding the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.
STAY HOME; SAVE LIVES! This is a halachic imperative of the highest order that each and every one of us must obey for the sake of the health of our own families, communities and fellow citizens.
We cannot repeat this often enough. Stay home. Avoid groups or public interactions of any kind, for any purpose. Leave home only for essential needs and only if you are healthy, have not been exposed to the virus, and are not in a high risk category. Observance of this mandate is critical.
We pray to the Almighty for the recovery of all those already affected by COVID-19, and for the swift success of the efforts of our government for testing, containment, treatment and prevention.
2. Half-Day Fast and Day of Prayer Tomorrow
The Orthodox Union and the Rabbinical Council of America join in the call of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Israel for a half-day fast on Thursday, March 19.
Only those who feel very well and are not in any risk category should fast until Chatzos (1:04pm).
One and all should engage in extra Tehillim (Psalms) and intense Tefillah (prayer). May Hashem hear our prayers with mercy and compassion and eradicate this plague from our midst.
We realize that these are very difficult and challenging times and we hope and pray for the wellness and safety of the entire MSJC family.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at security@mtsinaishul.com.
May we with G-d’s help soon be able to safely join together in our Shul!
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
The Officers of MSJC
MSJC Safety and Security Committee
COVID-19 Update #4 (MSJC CLOSURE NOTICE)
March 13, 2020
Dear MSJC family,
We are writing to inform you that after a great deal of consultation and deliberation, we’ve made the difficult decision to close the Shul and are cancelling all minyanim and shul programs effective immediately. At this point we do not know how long this closure will last.
To provide some background: It was reported to us that someone who davened with the Bridge Shul on Shabbat March 7th, tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday. When in shul, this individual avoided shaking hands and did not have a cough. This person had minimal interaction with MSJC membership that day and has informed people at the Bridge Shul of his diagnosis. Subsequently, we have received reports of other potential cases in the community which we are closely monitoring. The shul leadership met last night to consult with a panel of health care professionals, including four MDs, to discuss what we as a shul and community should do this Shabbat in response to COVID-19.
Out of concern to not further the potential spread of COVID-19 within our building and thereby unnecessarily tax our local healthcare system (we have been informed that NYC hospitals are as of today only able to perform testing on a very limited basis), we were advised to close down.
This was not an easy decision and it certainly pains us to not have tefillah b’tzibbur. But based on the halakhic guidance of our rabbanim and the advice of medical professionals, we feel that this is the best way to protect our community.
Many rabbanim have urged people to daven at home to avoid spreading the disease further. Please take the opportunity to daven more carefully, with more kavanah. Daven with the nusach, read the Parsha to yourself, learn some Torah, anything to keep a Shabbat atmosphere even without our Shul. We daven to Hashem that He speedily bring a safe end to this current situation.
We intend to set up web-conferencing for Kabbalat Shabbat tonight as well as for our shiurim this coming week. Please stay tuned for those details and other information as the situation develops.
We will be open today for people to pick up any items they have in the shul until 5pm, as well as Motzei Shabbat from 8pm - 10pm, and Sunday morning March 15 from 9am - 12pm. Please contact the office if you need to arrange another time.
Please address any health/safety concerns or questions to security@mtsinaishul.com and feel free to contact Rabbi Taubes at rabbi@mtsinaishul.com with any halakhic or other concerns.
Wishing everyone a healthy and safe Shabbat Shalom!
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
Yehuda Krupka, President
Naftali Polachek, Vice President
Sam Benson & Ari Rieser, MSJC Safety and Security
COVID-19 Update #3
March 11th, 2020
Thank you to everyone who helped make Purim at MSJC a tremendous success! We held eight different Megillah readings (two of them live-streamed), as well as a Purim Extravaganza, Kids Carnival, and Mishloach Manot distribution.
Unfortunately, given the evolving nature of our understanding of COVID-19, we have decided to postpone this week’s Scholar-In-Residence program and cancel Kiddush, Seudah Shlishit, and all our children’s groups this Shabbat.
We recommend the following simple steps to reduce risk:
- Do not kiss the mezuzah on entering or leaving a room.
- Do not kiss a communal sefer such as a siddur or chumash.
- Do not kiss the Torah when it is being taken out or returned to the Aron.
If you have any underlying health conditions or a compromised immune system you should not come to shul, even if you are feeling well. Additionally we are encouraging anyone over the age of 60 to consider not coming to shul even if you are feeling well.
While we don’t know how long these precautionary steps will be in place, we are hoping that they will at least enable us to maintain the normal weekday and Shabbat davening schedules.
From what we know, most individuals who contract COVID-19 will either be asymptomatic or if ill, will recover. We are concerned with transmitting the virus to the most vulnerable within our Synagogue and community family. The price to be paid for shutting down these non-tefilah related activities is negligible if it will help to prevent further infections with coronavirus.
We will continue to provide updates as they come up, and wish you all good health in these difficult times. If you have any further concerns or questions please email our Safety and Security Committee at security@mtsinaishul.com.
COVID- 19 Update #2
March 5, 2020
As the situation regarding COVID-19 continues to evolve, and as more community members are impacted by the closures at YU, SAR, and Westchester Torah Academy, we are focused on staying up-to-date, mapping out best practices and responses for our community, and supporting each other. We know this can be a trying and stressful time for all of us; MSJC leadership is here to listen and support as best we can.
After discussion with various medical experts, the email below contains a variety of guidelines and updates for our shul to protect at-risk populations, minimize potential spread, and maintain continued communal life where possible. We ask that you read this email in its entirety.
Most Sincerely,
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes
Yehuda Krupka, President
Naftali Polachek, Vice President
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
Sam Benson and Ari Rieser, Co-Chairs Safety and Security Committee
I. Current Best Health Practices, At-Risk Populations and Building Cleanliness
II. Interpersonal Contact
III. Parshat Zachor
IV. Food
V. Children’s Programs
VI. Purim
I. Current Best Health Practices, At-Risk Populations and Building Cleanliness
1. Health Practices:
We continue to be advised to follow these basic health precautions:
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve, not your hands
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Avoid touching your face
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Get your flu shot – it’s never too late
Stay home if you’re feeling at all sick. Call your doctor and let him/her know your symptoms and travel history.
Please note that if you come to shul with a cough and fever, you will be discreetly asked to leave
2. At-Risk Populations:
We have particular concern about the at-risk populations who have been shown to be most susceptible to the virus: the elderly, those with underlying respiratory conditions, and our general concern for the immunocompromised. If you fall into one of these populations, please consult your doctor before coming to shul. Your safety is our paramount concern.
3. Building Cleanliness:
We continue to be regularly cleaning and disinfecting our building and more frequently cleaning the regularly-touched surfaces around the building. We are very grateful to Nike for his hard work.
II. Interpersonal Contact, Torah and Mezuzah Contact
Interpersonal Contact:
In exercising precautions around interpersonal contact, our recommendation is shifting to elbow bumps in lieu of handshakes. We encourage each of you to adopt this approach, inside MSJC and out.
Torah and Mezuzah Contact:
In accordance with rabbinic rulings, we feel strongly that in this time of health risk, one should not practice the customs of kissing a mezuzah or kissing the Torah.
III. Parshat Zachor
MSJC is currently planning to have regular tefillot on Shabbat. There will be additional readings of Parshat Zachor after Hashkama and Main Minyan as well as after both Mincha Minyanim. Quarantined and at-risk populations and anyone else at home will have subsequent opportunities to hear Parshat Zachor read, either on Purim or at a later point when returning to shul is safe and advisable. We will keep you informed of those opportunities.
IV. Food
We understand the importance for simcha and achdus but have to balance these with the risk of disease transmission. As such, we have decided to take extra precautions and we will be significantly limiting the food we serve this Shabbat. We will not be serving any communal food. There will be no Kiddush following Hashkama or Main Minyan. Parents are encouraged to bring sufficient snacks for their children.
We do plan on having grape juice, water, coffee, and beverages available on Shabbat morning and throughout Shabbat day.
Seudat Shlishit will take place in shul. We will provide challah rolls, beverages, and disposable utensils for your use. You may bring your own food to supplement. Please join us as there will be a siyum on Masechet Brachot.
V. Children’s Groups
Thankfully, so far no one in our shul has tested positive for COVID-19. However, we are informing you that a number of our shul’s children who attend Westchester Torah Academy (WTA) have been instructed by the DOH to stay home under quarantine. Thankfully, they are not showing any symptoms, and we wish them well! As an added precaution we are suspending most of our children’s groups this weekend including Friday Night Open Play, Minyan Katan, and Jr. Minyan. Tot Shabbat will meet at its regular time and place.
VI. Purim
As of now our plan is to have our full Purim schedule. We will update you after Shabbat if any changes need to be made to our Purim programming.
COVID-19 Update #1
March 3rd, 2020
MSJC and Coronavirus
As you are aware, the outbreak of coronavirus that started in China has now reached New York. MSJC takes the safety and health of our members and families very seriously, and we want to share with you some thoughts about the current situation.
First and foremost, this situation is changing on an almost daily basis, but we will do our best to keep you informed on the impact to MSJC.
Background:
A novel coronavirus was identified in China a few months ago. First called novel coronavirus, its official name is now SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes is called Covid-19.
Covid-19 usually appears to be similar to a bad cold or flu with fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Most people recover without a problem. However, some people, especially the elderly or people with underlying medical conditions, can progress to serious illness or death.
The virus is spread by close contact but the exact mode is unclear and still under investigation.
What does this mean for us?
The good news is that many of the recommendations for controlling the spread of coronavirus come down to things we already know---we just have to be a bit more stringent.
· Get a flu vaccine! We’re still in flu season and getting vaccinated will not only prevent the flu, but help you avoid many of the same signs/symptoms as coronavirus.
· Cover your coughs and sneezes: use a tissue, not your hands. If you do not have a tissue, cough/sneeze into your sleeve.
· Wash your hands with soap often and do so for at least 20 seconds (the time to sing “Happy Birthday” twice).
o Make sure to rinse between your fingers.
o If you wear a ring, don’t forget to wash the ring.
· Do not touch your face, nose, or eyes if you haven’t washed your hands.
·If you feel sick, please stay home.
·Consider not shaking hands: elbow bumps or just saying “hi” are safer.
Next steps?
MSJC is working to develop contingency plans in case the coronavirus becomes more of an issue in our community. We are working with other community organizations, in contact with DOHMH, and tracking the guidance from CDC and other places. As we finalize these plans over the next few days, we will communicate them to you.
Sam Benson, Co-Chair of MSJC Safety and Security
Mirasha Moore, Executive Director
The Officers of MSJC
Thu, December 5 2024
4 Kislev 5785
Today's Calendar
Shacharit : 7:20am |
Mincha/Maariv : 4:15pm |
This week's Torah portion is Parshat Vayetzei
Shabbat, Dec 7 |
Candle Lighting
Friday, Dec 6, 4:09pm |
Havdalah
Motzei Shabbat, Dec 7, 5:10pm |
Erev Chanukah
Wednesday, Dec 25 |
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