Dear Readers,
If you listen closely, you might hear congregations throughout the nation exclaiming, “We’re BACK!” and if you listen even closer, you might also hear “…almost.”
High Holidays services in 2021 were a mixed bag, with many still concerned about attending in-person gatherings, tilting the numbers in favor for those watching from home. This year, however, is looking as if it will be the opposite, though online viewing will continue to be available from those congregations who frantically installed streaming capabilities in 2020.
Still, there’s that “…almost” as a mixed bag of mask and vaccination requirements remain and some congregants continue to be cautious for whatever reason about returning in-person. And, there are those who now prefer to open their iPads and watch from home rather than get dressed up and drive to their house of worship. Fortunately for those folks, options now exist.
Anticipating the return to in-person worship, you’ll read on page 26 how our area congregations have been preparing for the High Holiday season for months…to keep everyone safe from COVID as well as from danger. How fortunate for all of us that our congregations take seriously all potential risks.
On a different note, Debbie Burke’s article on page 19 on area shofar blowers offers a blast of stories on why and how this collection of guys has taken on this important and meaningful task each year.
Jewish News asked a variety of community members what they look forward to and hope for 5783. Their responses are on page 24.
Whatever you personally hope for or how you choose to observe the Jewish New Year, all of us at Jewish News wish you a healthy, safe, peaceful, and happy 5783!
L’Shanah Tovah!
Terri Denison
Editor