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Collecting These Times

American Jewish Experiences of the Pandemic

Collected Item: “Coming back together by sitting apart”

Title

Coming back together by sitting apart

Description

These are pictures of the sanctuary at Tikvat Israel in Rockville, MD, with seats marked off to ensure social distancing as we prepare to return.

Narrative

After 13 months, Tikvat Israel Congregation in Rockville returned for our first indoor, in-person service on Shabbat Acharei Mot/Kedoshim (April 24, 2021). The definition of “warm and welcoming” looks very different now, as we limit our numbers, ensure everyone maintains 6’ physical distancing and all wear masks, even when leading. As I rolled the Torah from Tetzaveh (the last portion we read) to Acharei Mot/Kedoshim (our reading this week), my eyes filled with tears of a mixture of awe, joy, anticipation and sadness. Something profound that we are returning this week, when we read the double parasha whose title translates to “after death” “holiness.” Yes, there is.

Creator

Rabbi Marc Israel

Date

2021-04-24

State or Territory

Maryland

City or Town

Rockville

Congregation/Institution

Tikvat Israel

Denomination

Conservative

Name

[private]

Your Location

[private]

Do you agree?

Yes
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