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Controversy Continues over Pandemic Restrictions 

06/10/2020 09:45:42 AM

Jun10

As COVID-19 precautions move into a new phase, Temple Beth El has created a task force toestablish safe practices as we prepare for a gradual return to communal life. On the national level, controversy has grown over whether houses of worship should be allowed to reopen for large gatherings. Rabbi Rick Jacobs, president of the Union for Reform Judaism, issued the following statement on May 22 on behalf of the Reform Jewish Movement:

“We have known for millennia that houses of worship are essential institutions. While we long to gather in person, we believe that there is no higher value than pikuach nefesh, saving a life. We are entrusted with the holy responsibility of being God’s partners in that work. The Reform Jewish Movement will continue to look to the wisdom of medical professionals to guide us on when reopening our synagogues can be done safely in keeping with our values.”

Rabbi Jacobs’s view is shared by many faith leaders in Wisconsin. These leaders spoke out in April by signing an amicus brief to the Wisconsin Supreme Court in favor of maintaining the Safer at Home order. The brief was supported by 131clergy and faith leaders—Protestants, Catholics, Quakers, Jews, and Buddhists—refuting the lawsuit’s contention that the order led to “decreased access to community and religious support.” The brief included 29 letters describing the strength, resiliency, and creativity of faith communities in moving their worship, pastoral care, religious instruction, and programming online. The statements highlighted how moving online made worship and other activities more rather than less accessible to those who would otherwise have been unable to participate due to age, disability, or geographic distance. Despite the disadvantages of not gathering in person, these religious leaders share a commitment to avoid putting members or anyone else at physical risk.The amicus brief was filed by Wisconsin Faith Voices for Justice, of which the TBE Social Action Committee is a supporting member.

April 26, 2024 18 Nisan 5784