Maintaining a Sense of Community in the Shadow of COVID-19

At times, we are able to get past the immediacies and to-do lists, seeing our lives as a series of road trips. Right now, I feel as if we’re in a tunnel. It’s not pitch black, so we’re able to find our way a bit, but the route we’re traveling seems to change directions hourly.  I see bits of light along the way, like when neighbors help each other, grocery shoppers share knowing smiles, and as our clergy and staff continue to lead beautiful worship and study sessions, though at a physical distance. Many challenges still await all of us, but I’m heartened that we are on the path together. Please know that Temple Isaiah is with you on the road trip, spiritually and communally.

As you’ll see below, Temple Isaiah staff, clergy and lay leadership have been in regular communication, thinking creatively about how to achieve our core mission in the midst of a difficult environment. I continue to be wowed by a pervasive can-do spirit and gratified by everyone’s dedication.

We are also currently cleaning the building thoroughly, so that when we can get back together, it will be in the healthiest possible space. Please continue to take care of yourselves and each other – that is how we will get through this.

While we practice social distancing we will continue to seek ways for us to join together as a community virtually.

Gathering is one of the most sacred and important things we do as a community. And regular gathering is even more important in this moment of extraordinary challenge that could lead to a sense of isolation. That is why we are offering the opportunity to gather on our Zoom account two times each day from Sunday through Friday morning (in addition to our Shabbat streaming).  Our clergy, educators and lay leaders will be hosting Boker Tov (“Good Morning”) at 9 am and Erev Tov (“Good Evening”) at 5:30 pm. Geared for the wide swath of our TI community, these gatherings will include a variety of topics and formats, but all will include a moment of prayer, some inspirational teaching and the opportunity to interact on the Zoom platform with members of your Temple Isaiah community.

As we pray in V’Ahavta – “you shall engage with these words when you are at home and away, when you lie down at night and when you rise up in the morning.” (Deuteronomy 6)

To access Boker Tov at 9am go to https://zoom.us/j/753499667

To access Erev Tov at 5:30pm go to https://zoom.us/j/925211816