A Temple History: 2020 This March marks two years since our world changed in ways we never could have imagined. As we reflect and remember the lives lost and the lives forever altered during the COVID-19 pandemic, we also look back at how the IHC community rose to the challenges of unprecedented times. IHC librarian Evelyn Pockrass recalls what unfurled within our congregation in the year 2020.
March
On March 4, a message was sent to IHC congregants noting the congregation was taking steps to be certain the building's surfaces were cleaned thoroughly and that our leadership was monitoring the situation closely. We were told that, as of February 28, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had said that currently there was “low” risk for an outbreak in the United States. Within a short period of time, circumstances changed completely and the members of IHC, along with the rest of the country, were about to experience a once-in-a-century event: a global pandemic. By March 12, we learned that beginning Sunday, March 15, all programs in the building would be suspended until April 12. It was hoped that programming would be resumed by mid-April. The following day we were told the Early Childhood Center (ECC), the Jewish Learning Program (Religious School), all Youth Groups, task forces, and committee meetings would be going online if possible. The building was being closed to all congregants and visitors. IHC became a virtual congregation on March 19. “We Are Here for You.” became an oft-repeated sentiment not only for our members but throughout the city, state, and country. We were going to help “flatten the curve” (remember that phrase?). Starting March 20, services would be live-streamed. Hoosiers, who were not in “essential” work as defined by the state, were asked to stay home. IHC staff would be working remotely wherever possible. The last full workday in the building was March 16, but staff would be available by phone or email. Leadership would be working on new and creative ways to maintain their connection with congregants. They were adhering to the guidelines of the CDC and in touch with congregations in Indianapolis as well as congregations within the Reform Movement. Cantor Aviva Marer arranged for a virtual Meditative Musical Healing event on March 24. Rabbi Roxanne Shapiro gave a tutorial on using Zoom, the online connection program new to many but the link for individuals and institutions to converse with family, friends, congregants, and business associates. Modern technology became a lifeline in the months to come.
April
The curve did not flatten, and in April there was a flurry of cancellations of in-person programs and events: b’nai mitzvah celebrations had to be re-thought and rescheduled, LAF (Life After Fifty) programming went online, Mitzvah Stitchers and others were sewing masks, ECC teachers were making videos that could be accessed at any time. Parents and families of school-age children were encountering the challenges and opportunities of having their children learning virtually at home. Often adults were homebound, too, working remotely, with some facing temporary or permanent layoffs. Gradually, we were hearing of more and more cases of citizens contracting, some dying, of what came to be called COVID19. But April also brought the celebration of Passover. How could we observe the family oriented seder? Some followed CDC guidelines of not having indoor gatherings of more than 10 people; others experimented with a virtual seder in the hope that next year they would be able to gather in person again. The IHC YouTube channel allowed staff and congregants to display skills by offering several videos about the holiday.
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