OCTOBER 22 • 2020 | 27

Rabbis Revise 
COVID Rules 

JN STAFF
T

he Michigan Board 
of Rabbis (MBOR) 
has revised its policies 
regarding funerals and sim-
chahs based on the ever-evolv-
ing pandemic conditions, the 
change in season and updated 
guidance from state authorities. 
Excluding clergy and staff, 
attendance shall not exceed 36 
people in communal spaces 
that hold more than 150 people 
— an increase from MBOR’
s 
previous guidelines of 25 
people. Also excluding clergy 
and staff, attendance shall not 
exceed 18 people in smaller 
communal spaces.
Regarding funerals, MBOR 
President Rabbi Daniel 
Schwartz of Temple Shir 
Shalom said the board wanted 
to provide this indoor option 
for bitterly cold weather.
Outside services and events 
are still preferred. But under 
certain guidelines backed up by 
medical advice, congregations 
are able to offer both indoor 
and outdoor ceremonies.
Everyone present must wear 
a face covering at all times, 
except while speaking/leading 
the ceremony. Social distancing 
guidelines will be followed, 
including at least 6 ft. between 
attendees and at least 20 ft. 
from a leader to the closest 
attendee.
Contact tracing, tempera-
ture/symptom checks, sanita-
tion stations and limited access 
to restrooms are all recom-
mended. It’
s preferred that the 
length of time inside buildings 
is limited and that windows be 
kept open to increase ventila-
tion.
Greeting lines and the hand-
ing out of books will not be 
allowed.
Since Aug. 1, synagogues 
affiliated with MBOR began 
offering private, in-person 
simchahs (weddings, baby 
namings, b’
nai mitzvah) with 
specific guidelines. 

Join us from your home to honor 

Holocaust survivor Eleanor Jackier 

and to secure the future of the 

Holocaust Memorial Center. 

Together we will share an inspiring 

broadcast with music and celebrities.

HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL CENTER 
ZEKELMAN FAMILY CAMPUS

Eleanor Jackier

Sunday, November 15, 2020 • 7 PM

Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman Family Campus

28123 Orchard Lake Rd.• Farmington Hills, MI 48334

Larry Jackier

Chair

For Tickets and Sponsorships
www.holocaustcenter.org/benefi
 t 
248.536.9601

Ad deadline October 26

STAND UP TO HATRED, ANTISEMITISM AND GENOCIDE

Elaine & Michael Serling

Advisors 
Nina & Bernie Kent

Advisors