Message from Sons of Israel president

Dear Members and Friends,

Over the last few months our Country has been faced with the challenge and concerns of a major health crisis. As we work on plans for reopening our synagogue, we find our community, our State, and our Country faced with yet another challenge and concern of civil rights. Our hearts go out to the victims’ families and all our fellow citizens impacted by these two crises. We welcome all to join us as we move toward restoring public worship services at First Congregation Sons of Israel.

In taking steps toward restoring physical proximity with each other, our synagogue will place the preservation of life first and foremost; we will not knowingly put congregants and staff at significant medical risk – or whose family members are at elevated risk – in a situation where they or loved ones have to endanger their health or well-being.

We are looking to form a reopening task force. The synagogue is also working with other institutions in the greater NE Florida Jewish community to share information, resources, and coordinate plans. In addition to reopening for services, we are pleased to announce that our Education Committee has partnered with the Goldring Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life so that we can again have a religious school at First Congregation Sons of Israel after reopening. More information on the school will be forthcoming.

Our building will remain closed for the time being. Our Shabbat services will remain exclusively online for now.

Judaism teaches us that there are blessings to be found in every moment. Moreover, our experience as a people shows us that we can exist and maintain spiritual solidarity even when we cannot be with one another physically. With positive leadership, patience, and tremendous love for each other we will persevere during this challenging period, balancing our health and well-being while honoring our need and desire to participate in the life of our community.

Shalom,

Les Stern, President

First Congregation Sons of Israel