Corona Virus letter from the Rabbi & ManCom

Dear Bet David Families,

We are writing to you at atime when health is a serious concern, not only in faraway countries, but alsonow here in South Africa. We are reading and following the same guidelines thatyou are and will follow them as precautions and best practices for stayinghealthy.

At Bet David, the bathroomand washing facilities are cleaned regularly and staff members handling foodhave been reminded to follow essential rules of hygiene. Breaking with ourminhag, we will cut the challot before doing HaMotzi and hand outchallah in a basket or bowl instead of passing the challot around. We thank youin advance for understanding if we make some temporary changes, also in theways that we are used to interacting with one another: elbow bumps instead ofhandshakes, hands on own hearts instead of connecting up for blessings, etc.

In addition, we arewriting to say that your synagogue and your rabbi are here for you.

Our prayers will continue tobe directed to those around the world who are experiencing illness, as well asthose who are caring for them. We will hold those who are anxious in ourhearts, as well as the many worldwide who have been isolated from others inquarantine for extended periods of time. And our hearts go out to those who aregrieving the loss of loved ones.

Talk with us. Let us know how we, your Community, can help. Shouldyou be affected by the virus, or any other illness, let us know. The rabbi orothers of the community might not be allowed to visit you, but we are happy tocall you and/or have a little chat via skype.

Our main concern is you! For the moment, there is no risk in coming to shul andto be part of the community. We hope to see many of you on Shabbat and Purim.

May our world be blessed withhealing – with refu’ah shleimah – at this time, and always!

Shabbat Shalom

Rabbi Adrian M Schell& ManCom