COVID-19 Resources

This past year has left us craving a return to togetherness. It has been a year of limitations, and we are all exhausted and discouraged by the recent news. Based on expert medical advice and considering many different factors, our reopening committee sought to balance the need for communal gathering with reasonable precautions to protect the health and wellbeing of our members. With these values in mind, HEA recognizes that the safest place for members to participate in High Holy Days this year will be at home while viewing our high-definition livestreamed services. Those who choose to attend services in person will be asked to adhere to the protocols outline below. 

Please read through this email in its entirety to be able to fully participate in High Holy Day worship in a way in which you feel is safe and comfortable for you.

CHANGES IN PROTOCOL FOR FAMILY SERVICES AND ALL HIGH HOLY DAY SERVICES IN THE SANCTUARY AND BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH:

The difficult decision has been made that the best way to keep people safe is to have only vaccinated people in both the HEA and Bethany sanctuaries. 

All families with children under 12 years of age are invited to our Young Family and K-6th Family Services, which will be held outside on the HEA Sukkah pad behind the sanctuary. Medical grade, well-fitting masks are required at all services, inside or outside. Masks will be provided if needed.

CHANGES IN PROTOCOL REQUIRING ALL PARTICIPANTS ELIGIBLE FOR A COVID VACCINATION TO SHOW PROOF OF THEIR  FULL VACCINATION STATUS:

We are requiring proof of full vaccination status for all attendees that are eligible for the COVID vaccination. You can find information on eligibility and fully vaccinated status requirements on the CDC website.

HEA is offering you three ways to minimize lines at check-in next week and share your vaccination status early:

• When you come in to get your tickets, show us either your Vaccination Card, a photo of your vaccination card on your phone, or your online passport from your mYColorado app*.
• Upload a picture of your Vaccination card or a screenshot of your online passport from your mYColorado app* to either your ShulCloud member account or put your photo in an email to info@headenver.org. Your photo will be deleted after we record your vaccine.
• Show either your card, a photo of your card on your phone, or your online passport from your myColorado app at check-in when you come to services. If you choose this option, please plan on coming at least 30 minutes early to decrease the backup that will accumulate as people arrive. 

* Both Android and Apple App stores offer the myColorado app for free.  Once downloaded, just follow the instructions to take a photo of the back of your driver’s license to have your online COVID passport downloaded onto your phone. The HEA rabbis have approved the use of electronics only at check-in for this verification process.

Feel free to call our office for assistance with this process.

EARLY BIRD TICKET PICK UP AND MACHZOR CHECK OUT:

You can pick up your tickets, show your proof of vaccination or check out Machzor Prayer books for use at home at our main office:

• Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (August 31, September 1, and 2)  9:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
• Friday, (September 3) 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
• Monday, (September 5) 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

 
Registration is required for all services, and capacity is limited at both the HEA building and Bethany Church. Please be advised that if you do not register, you may be turned away at the door.

If you have already registered and have decided to stay at home for services, PLEASE CALL AND CANCEL YOUR REGISTRATION to allow space for those who want to attend.

While we strive to create the safest environment possible for you and your loved ones to gather and welcome 5782 in our community, be aware that there is a certain risk factor in every public outing, and only you can know what is right for you.

FAQs

Why can’t I wait until the morning of services to see how I feel about going?

With room capacity limits in place, if you decide to enjoy services at home, it is possible that someone else who wants to be in the building may not have a spot. 

Won’t my at-home experience be subpar to being in person?

We heard last year from those of you who watched services from home or with your prayer pod that you had a wonderful experience and enjoyed the comforts of home. Consider reconvening your Prayer Pod from last year and relax while enjoying the high-quality livestreaming that HEA provides. Enjoy this video that the HEA staff made last year to remind you how wonderful it is to welcome the New Year with friends and family from your living room or backyard.

How do I join services remotely?

Click HERE to join us via livestream for services. Don’t forget to stop by this week to pick up and check out your prayer book so you can fully participate. 

What do I need to know if I am coming to services in person?

You must pre-register to attend in-person services. You can register HERE or by calling the office.

Plan on getting to shul early as there will be a check-in process.

Be prepared to show your proof of vaccination if you haven’t already done so.

Note that the air conditioning will be blowing to keep the air in the sanctuary moving in accordance with the ventilation suggestions from the CDC. You may want to bring a sweater. 

Remain masked at all times in the building, regardless of vaccination status. Be sure that your mask fits properly, and for your protection, wear a surgical-grade mask. We will have masks available at HEA. 

If you are attending the outdoor Family and Youth Services, always leave your mask on properly and be sure that your child is also wearing their mask properly. 

Know that our staff and volunteers are working hard to keep our community safe. Please do not create any awkward moments for them.  If you are uncomfortable in our building or with any of the protocols in use, we encourage you to join us online.
 
Your safety is of the utmost importance to us.

We plan to continue sharing updates and information and encourage you to visit our website frequently and to open all emails from us for more details. For a complete schedule of the High Holy Day services, links to our livestreaming, and other pertinent information visit:

Thank you for reading the entire email. If you have any questions, please call our front office or me. May 5782 be a year of hope, health, community, and peace for us all.

Rabbi Bruce Dollin, Senior Rabbi
Rabbi Salomon Gruenwald, Associate Rabbi
Laura Intfen, CEO
Caron Blanke, Chair Person of the Board of Directors