Rabbi Weill's Blog

Dear Friends,

Uncertainty prevails in the book of Esther, the biblical story that gives us the holiday of Purim. The Jews of Persia feel events are beyond their control. Ultimately, though, they gain control of the situation, and all ends well.

We too face a measure of uncertainty as we face this coronavirus, also known as Covid-19. Please note: The risk of contracting this virus remains very low. Still, the virus continues to expand, and we must exercise reasonable caution. 

Skokie’s Director of Health, Dr. Catherine A. Counard, met with members of the Niles Township Clergy Forum this week. Dr. Counard urged us to convey important information to our congregants and to implement reasonable precautions within our congregations. She encourages us all to remember two important phrases: SOCIAL DISTANCING and ENHANCED CLEANING. 

SOCIAL DISTANCING means the following:

1. Refrain from shaking hands and hugging. Instead, offer an elbow bump, a simple bow, or a friendly smile. During our Shabbat Torah processionals, let’s just wish each other a warm “Shabbat Shalom.”
2. If you feel sick – even if you are sure it is merely a cold – stay home. If you are staying home but want to reach out to someone, I’d be happy to hear from you.
3. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

ENHANCED CLEANING means the following:

1. Wash your hands with hot water and soap frequently. Sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice while washing hands.
2. If soap and hot water are not available, use hand sanitizer. We have some around the synagogue, but you can also try to purchase your own.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
4. Do not sneeze or cough into your hands! Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, and then dispose of that tissue. If you have no tissue, sneeze into your elbow joint.
5. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces at home. We are doing the same at EHNT.

If you have questions, an Illinois Novel Coronavirus Hotline is open 24/7: 1 (800) 889-3931. You can also call the Skokie Health Department at (847) 933-8252 or visit www.skokie.org.

Please remember, the vast majority of Americans have a low risk of exposure to Covid-19. I look forward to seeing you on Shabbat and at the upcoming shpiels!

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Jeffrey Weill