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