COVID Update

At the February 16, 2023, Executive Committee meeting, in its function as the COVID committee a decision was made to update our COVID policies regarding vaccinations.  The new wording is "It is recommended that congregants and guests be vaccinated for COVID-19 and stay up to date with boosters as eligible.  Proof of COVID vaccination is not required to attend synagogue events."

As of Friday, June 3, CBI is reinstating the COVID masking policy. Disposable surgical-style masks, such as N95, KN95, or KF94, are required to be worn by all individuals aged 2+, regardless of vaccination status, at all times while on the premises. As before, gaiter style masks or masks with vents or holes are not allowed. Cloth masks are not recommended.

Dear Congregants,

Throughout the last two years, our congregation has been an inspirational model of strength, of resilience, and of caring for each other. When the pandemic began, we reacted quickly to move to new ways of interacting, and everyone rose to the challenge of last-minute changes, restrictions, and unfamiliar new models for family and community celebrations. As the pandemic continued, we have frequently adjusted our policies as risks have gone up and down, and as knowledge and best practices have shifted.

Purim marked a significant anniversary as it was the last major event we held in person in 2020, and after two years, it was wonderful to be able to gather again this year for our traditional carnival and Erev Purim festivities.

Based on the current local data and trends, and guidance from organizations including the CDC, the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees has approved the following changes to our COVID policies effective immediately:​​​​​

• Wearing a mask indoors is recommended, but will now be optional in most situations, including services, events, and Religious School. Masks may still be required in specific spaces – please follow the request of the teacher or event organizer.
• Events with food, including B’nai Mitzvah events, may now take place inside at the discretion of the family or organizer.
• We are discontinuing COVID capacity limits in the CBI Sanctuary and Social Hall.
• We continue to require vaccination for everyone aged 5 and up in order to be at the synagogue, including boosters when eligible. This includes guests; please advise them accordingly. If you haven't done so already, please verify vaccination status here.

We know that personal situations, comfort levels, and choices will vary, and it is important to continue to take precautions like distancing and hand washing, to care for each other and be sensitive to others’ preferences and space. It is more important than ever that if you have any symptoms, or test positive for COVID, that you do not come to the synagogue – please stay home and take care of yourself. We will continue to offer livestreaming of services for the foreseeable future, along with ways to engage both virtually and in person.

L'shalom,


Josh Mastronarde, President
Rabbi Mona Alfi
Cantor Julie Steinberg
Rabbi Galit Cohen-Kedem
Leslie Oberst, Executive Director