President's Message

President's Message - June 2020

Dear Friends,

After more than two months of being shut down, Texas is opening up. Businesses are opening. People are venturing out, and it is time for our temple to open its doors again as well. As good as our virtual programs are, they do not compare to actual, in-person contact. However, the coronavirus is still out there, and we are justifiably concerned about the potential for getting sick. So, we are discussing exactly when and how we open our doors, and what precautions we should take to minimize the risk of spreading the coronavirus. We have cleaned our sanctuary and auditorium, shampooed our carpeting, and secured lots of hand sanitizer. We have a small committee working on procedures to help maintain a safe environment at the temple, and the board will discuss and vote on a formal date to reopen our doors at our next meeting on June 10th. I recognize that there will be a range of opinions on what we should (or should not) do. Some people will be standing at the front door waiting for it to open, while others will prefer to wait for a while. Either approach is valid, and we will continue to offer live stream programming after we open our doors so that we can remain a fully engaged community that allows everyone the opportunity to participate.

I also want to take a moment to recognize the senseless murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The murder of Mr. Floyd laid bare the scourge of racism in America. While I cannot condone destruction and looting, I do feel the anger and frustration expressed in the protests and riots that have gripped our nation this past week.

I pray for the pandemic to end so that we can return to our normal lives. I also pray that our new normal includes an end to racism and a recognition that b’tzelem elohim, that we are all created in God’s image, applies to ALL people equally.

My friends, please stay safe and stay healthy. I look forward to seeing you at the temple soon!

L’Shalom,

Greg

Gregory Marks

President, Congregation Beth Israel