Glasgow Orthodox congregation Newton Mearns is shut for Shabbat this week after its long-serving caretaker tested positive for Covid-19.

Shul chair Lewis Orchant stressed the measure was precautionary and that the building would reopen for Shabbat next Friday. 

The janitor felt unwell last Saturday and received a positive test result on Monday. Mr Orchant informed members by email on Wednesday that the synagogue would be closed until November 6. 

Although the caretaker had been at the shul last Friday night, Mr Orchant told the JC  the chance of transmission was minimal as “everyone wears PPE and because we don’t spent time talking to the janitor – she’s just at the door to let us in and let us out on Shabbos".

Before reopening, volunteers and a synagogue administrator will take charge of a deep clean of the premises.

Because of reduced numbers at weekday services during the pandemic, Newton Mearns has been holding joint prayers with nearby Giffnock and Newlands Synagogue.

Newton Mearns congregants can attend Shabbat and weekday services at Giffnock and Newlands until their building reopens.