Around a third of the United Synagogue’s 60 shuls have closed for the time being, despite collective worship being allowed under the tougher Tier 4 rules now in place in London, Hertfordshire and some other southern counties.
Shuls whose leaders have taken the decision to shut include Borehamwood and Elstree — the US’s largest congregation — St John’s Wood and Stanmore.
A US spokesperson told the JC that some shuls had been influenced by the proportion of elderly and vulnerable people within their ranks.
“They have taken the view that it is better to be safe than sorry.” The likelihood was that they would review their position after the holiday season.
The US is, in any case, discouraging those over 70 from attending services.
In new guidance issued on Sunday, the US said that bnei mitzvah or brit milah ceremonies that form part of a regular service — and a shivah incorporated into maariv (the evening service) — were still permitted.
Director of services Jo Grose said: “We will continue to support our communities whatever decision they take, adding a range of online programmes for those which close.”
These would include “daily online davening three times a day on weekdays on our Facebook page in addition to our popular Kabbalat Shabbat series. We will continue with our ‘Kaddish pairing project’ to ensure those who are unable to attend a minyan can have kaddish said in memory of a loved one.”
There is no cap on the number of worshippers at a service in England as long as masks are worn and social distancing observed.
In Tier 4 areas,funerals can continue with 30 people present but stone-settings are now restricted to six people.
