A ‘challenging’ Yomtov

WITH REDUCED capacities and many members isolating, United Synagogue attendances over Rosh Hashanah were estimated at just a quarter of last year’s number.

But given the “obvious challenges posed by the pandemic”, US director of communitiesJoGrosepraisedcongregationsfora“wonderfulsetof Covid-secure services”and, in some cases, additional family and children’s programming. She also highlighted the support from local public health teams to ensure that off-site events could take place.

At Welwyn Garden City Synagogue, the sanctuary capacity was 25 to allow for social distancing. So the synagogue ran two services each day, allowing 80 congregants to participate, the number it would normally attract for a single festivalservice.ShulchairStephenLopesDias was relieved that everyone wishing to attend was accommodated.

Its rabbi, Yakov Tatz, embarked on a five-mile walking tour of the locality to blow the shofar for those unable to be in shul, among them Sam Ostro, who will turn 103 on Yom Kippur. “He really appreciated that,” Mr Lopes-Dias said.

In Northwood, the United shul welcomed 60 members each day. Northwood chair Alan Moss said there was general delight that the shul was open for Yomtov and that “the atmosphere was very good”. Its five Yom Kippur services are fully subscribed.

Kenton Synagogue hosted 170 people during the festival. Chair Rachelle Goldberg said that with the age profile of the community,“quiteafewwhowouldnormally come are shielding so we’re really pleased with the numbers”.