During these repetitively branded ‘unprecedented times’, the local community ethos of mutual aid and unity has become ever more prevalent. In a climate of uncertainty, many have sought the comfort and familiarity of what had become neglected within daily life, and often discover its capacity to endure this uncertain period.
For numerous Liberal Jewish communities situated locally, Friday evening synagogue services perhaps signify familiarity; with recognised faces, food and music. The comfort this supplies is so often neglected, providing reassurance for communities that despite constantly evolving times, Friday evening services will always guarantee the accustomed.
In particular regard to liberal Judaism, it would be an unorthodox (but largely true) assumption that many are not drawn to regular worship to boast their constant devotion to God. Yet, there remains a comfort in hearing familiar prayers intoned by familiar voices, evoking stability and hope.
Yet, the recent Coronavirus outbreak has forced communities into distinctly unfamiliar circumstances. Obligatory social distancing and isolation measures have essentially removed all aspects of intimacy from daily life. And, in consequence, many religious spaces have been forced to close, particularly as a result of the vulnerability of many members of the community.
However, local synagogues have not discarded the familiarity and comfort provided by these services. Instead, the online process has been embraced to enable daily live streams of services and sermons, live streamed bat-mitzvahs and study group conferences.
Though the effort is arguably minimal, to simply perform normal synagogue activities before a phone camera, the result comforts communities, supplying the stability and certainty many lack at this time.
