Dear Congregants,

As we continue to share more information about our shul’s reopening, today’s topic is technology. When the pandemic hit, it forced us to get creative and think outside of the box to keep our community engaged. We not only held services online, but also different classes, programs, and even fundraisers. All of this was made possible by technology, which tends to be one of those areas we take for granted (at least, when it works).

While we look forward to welcoming people back into the building, it is equally important to understand that not everyone is able or comfortable returning at this point. Also, one positive aspect of the pandemic was learning new ways for people to participate in the Beth Jacob Community, and to involve people who previously could not be involved.Thus, technology will continue to play a role in our Beth Jacob life for the foreseeable future.

We have recently formed a committee of people with a variety of technology backgrounds to assess what we have in the sanctuary, and what we will need to provide a better at-home experience for those who will be joining us online. The committee includes Rafi Forbush, Nicole Herman, Joanna Lowinger, Brian Millberg, Bernie Miller, and Tessa Silver. They will be researching upgraded cameras, microphones, software, and a variety of other tools to bring our congregants a better at-home experience. Zoom helped us during the pandemic, but it is a platform that was never meant to broadcast in this way. As we look towards the future, we are looking into equipment and systems that will better meet our needs.

Some possible upgrades include multiple cameras to capture different angles of the service, higher quality microphones that will help to eliminate background noise, and software programs specifically designed for at-home viewing. We plan to make upgrades in the sanctuary, and will also be looking at suggestions for the chapel so that morning minyan can be improved as well. This committee is already hard at work and we hope to begin seeing improvements in the coming weeks.

While all of this sounds exciting, it is important to note that we will abide by Jewish law and traditions, as well as work to provide the experience of communal prayer to the greatest extent possible. Beth Jacob is a conservative synagogue who will honor and observe Shabbat, while working to strike a balance with a better viewing experience for our congregants at home.

As with most things, technology costs money. While we are committed to improving our equipment and technology systems, we do not currently have a significant pot of money set aside for these needs. If you are interested in contributing to our sanctuary technology upgrades or have questions, please reach out to me at alex@beth-jacob.org.

Alex Locke

Executive Director