BRENTWOOD, Tenn. (WTVF) — As Jewish New Year celebrations get underway, many traditions may look different due to COVID-19.
Temples across the Nashville area are adjusting to make sure congregations can still celebrate Rosh Hashanah while staying safe.
A quiet sanctuary at Congregation Micah in Brentwood is an unfamiliar sight during what’s normally one of the most festive days of the year. The traditional services at sundown to mark the start of Rosh Hashanah will be held online.
"Like a lot of communities, we are hesitant to bring a lot of people together, so we have created a virtual experience," said Rabbi Philip Rice. "We are thankful and grateful for technology and ability to stay connected."
It's a concept that is familiar at Congregation Micah. The temple began lives streaming services before the COVID-19 outbreak in an effort to reach people who were sick or couldn't attend. Now it has become an important part of the weekly routine in the COVID-19 era.
There are five Jewish congregations in the Nashville area. Orthodox synagogues, which do not use electricity on holy days, will conduct in-person services with restrictions. Conservative and Reform congregations are mostly organizing online ceremonies, with a few exceptions for socially distanced gatherings.
"Because people have that option and they can feel comfortable in a variety of settings. They have choices and I think that is what makes the modern American Jewish experience so positive," said Eric Stillman, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
At Congregation Sherith Israel in Nashville, which is an orthodox synagogue, a tent has been set up outside to allow for social distancing during in person services.
"It's really important that people take whatever measures make them feel healthy safe, and they can celebrate in ways that are best for them and their family," said Stillman.
Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the Jewish New Year and it begins begins ten days of penitence culminating in Yom Kippur.
While COVID-19 will force many congregations to get creative for Rosh Hashanah, It will still result in a memorable holiday.
"It’s a new year. It’s a special time It’s a time to rejoice, and we will," said Rabbi Rice.
