Preaching Goes Viral

US Surgeon General briefs Jewish leaders on best practices for High Holiday gatherings

[don't use] In-person communal gatherings (adapted)

[don't use] Virtual communal gatherings

[OLD] Accept or reject public health guidelines

Unlike other viruses, including the common cold, Adams said people can have COVID-19 and not know it. “It’s important that your congregation understand that it’s not just about how you feel and how someone looks, but assuming everyone has the virus, and putting barriers and limiting high-risk” activities. In the context of holiday prayer, such high-risk activities include singing and reciting prayers aloud. Emphasizing that the safest option for congregations is to be online for the holidays—“I understand the virtual option isn’t something you look to do,” Adams said, noting as a doctor he needed to say it—the surgeon general said that best option would be told hold outdoor services if possible.

2022-12-13

Faygie Holt

h808