NYC Synagogues Plan for High Holidays with Delta Variant in Mind

By: Ellen Cans

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are quickly approaching.  Unfortunately, this year, we will once again face the high holidays with the threat of the pandemic looming over us, and need to consider implementing safety protocols.  “The country seemed to be exiting the pandemic; barely a month ago, a sense of celebration was palpable”, wrote Roni Caryn Rabin in a piece for The New York Times.  However, now “rising case rates are upending plans for school and workplace reopenings, and threatening another wave of infections that may overwhelm hospitals in many communities.”

The Jewish New Year, which begins on the night of Sept. 6, and the subsequent Day of Atonement which falls on the night of the 15th this year, are the busiest times of the year for most synagogues.  The COVID-19 Delta variant is forcing many synagogues to make modifications to services.  Some of the shuls are enforcing mask mandates, coronavirus testing and/or vaccination requirements.  Outdoor synagogues and smaller backyard popups are also other options.

As reported by the NY Post, B’nai Jeshurun, a large Upper West Side synagogue, announced this week that attendees will need a negative COVID-19 PCR test in order to join indoor services. The shul is providing a testing van outside its shul before the holidays for members’ convenience.

The Orthodox Lincoln Square Synagogue on the Upper West Side, will have services closer to  “normal” this year, compared with last year, said Rabbi Shaul Robinson.  Worshippers will need to submit proof of vaccination and wear masks indoors.   “More people are choosing to try get space at our outdoor service than we initially anticipated,” R’ Robinson said. “So there’s no question about it, the Delta [variant] was a setback to everybody’s sense of confidence.”

Speaking of outdoor space, Temple Emanu-El, the large Reform synagogue on Fifth Avenue, will be holding a Yom Kippur service for members at Central Park’s SummerStage for the first time. The shul is requiring proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test.  It will also host online streaming services, free for all, in hopes of attracting a larger audience.  “These services will be free and open to anyone, anywhere in the world.  Everyone is welcome,” said Rabbi Joshua Davidson, who added that the shul created a new website to host the live stream.

Central Synagogue, located on 55th Street in Midtown, will be holding additional high holiday services in Radio City Music Hall, to offer more space for a larger in-person crowd.   Members will need to show proof of vaccination or wear a mask.