Five Towns Orthodox shuls are closed because of coronavirus

The March 12 decision by several Orthodox rabbis to shutdown synagogues in the Five Towns hit home on March 17 as Kehillas Bais Yehuda Tzvi in Cedarhurst said that Rabbi Yochanan Cohen tested positive for COVID-19.

“We are sharing this information with you, with his permission, and with the understanding that you may want to consult with your medical professional,” the shul stated in an email.
Several Orthodox synagogues closed until further notice on March 13.

“We recognize the importance of our institution to the lives of our members of all ages. It is heartbreaking for us to have to come to this difficult decision, and it was made after days and hours of very careful deliberation. New reports this morning concerning the nature of communal spread, have contributed to our painful decision.

“Because the situation is fluid, we will reevaluate these decisions on a regular and on-going basis. We will communicate with you as changes take place. Please take these days as a critical opportunity to intensify your prayers that all those who are not well, will be healed and that our community will be shielded from any further harm.”

The rabbis put together several points of advice. “We must try our best to stay home with only our immediate family and avoid unnecessary contact with others, and particularly avoid contact with substantial groups. We should only leave home when it is truly necessary,” the stated in the letter.

Officially called a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, the COVID-19 outbreak caused the Rabbinical Council of Bergen County in New Jersey to send out a letter to all its synagogues strongly urging congregants to work from home, no play dates though schools are closed and shuls will be closed for prayer gatherings effective Friday morning, March 13. Two days later, the Centers for Disease Control stated that people should not gather in groups of 50 or more.

No public celebrations, no gatherings for Shabbat meals and phone or video calls should replace shiva calls. The rabbis suggest refraining from taking part in contact sports and eating at restaurants. The rabbis recommend ordering for pickup or delivery.

Rabbi Steven Graber, leader of Temple Hillel, said that his North Woodmere synagogue and Congregation Sons of Israel in Woodmere have "canceled all programs through March 16, including Sabbath services. On Monday we will re-evaluate for the short-term future."  

Chabad of Hewlett Rabbi Nochem Tenenboim said the March 18 dinner was moved to May 27 and after schools were closed the Chabad set up its online school " so that we can try to keep some resemblance of normalcy while keeping healthy and safe." 

Temple Israel of Lawrence Executive Director Alan Freedman said that the synagogue is closed. “Prayer and hand washing are the best medicines at this time,” said Rabbi Jay Rosenbaum, leader of the Reform congregation said.

Reflects updated information from the Chabad of Hewlett.