By Nance Ebert, Contributing Writer
Photo/submitted
Marlborough – Alison Matthew, president of Temple Emanuel’s congregation, made the decision over five months ago to continue with the religious school remotely. While other programming needed to be figured out, the first attempt for a Friday night virtual Shabbat service was a big success. Then came a Zoom Seder, board meeting, Yom HaShoa Holocaust Remembrance Day, Adult Education programs, guest speakers, concerts and more.
“Frankie Snyder, an archeologist who lives in Israel, did two Zoom presentations about the ancient First and Second temples in Israel,” Matthew noted. “…It was terrific! Jewish American musician Joe Buchanan gave a concert that many enjoyed.”
For many congregants, there is truly a sense of isolation and just being able to connect, even on the computer, has been a lifeline for many. For those who have moved away or are not able to travel to the synagogue, the virtual programming has allowed for them to participate remotely.
“Doing virtual Shabbat and High Holidays services have allowed one of the temple members who is in the military and now stationed in Honduras to participate on Zoom. This connection to home has been quite meaningful for her,” Matthew said. “We have seen congregants that we have not seen in a while.”
Rosh Hashanah is Friday-Sunday, Sept 18-20 and Yom Kippur is Sunday-Monday, Sept. 27-28.
For a complete schedule of events for visit www.templeemanuelma.org.
“We welcome anyone who is interested to join us and while we always ask for a suggested donation of $90 per adult, any amount is acceptable and we never turn anyone away,” said Matthew.
For additional information, e-mail [email protected] or call 508-868-7565.
