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In times of uncertainty, we rely on community for strength and inspiration. This makes the Coronavirus crisis doubly difficult; just when we really need community to help us cope with our fear, we are informed that “social distancing” is the only way to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.
 
It is therefore with much sadness that we are suspending our communal tefillot beginning this Shabbat, March 20-21. The decision was an exceedingly difficult one, but ultimately we were driven by the imperative to save life. Keeping people apart is the call of the hour. The situation is dynamic, and we will reevaluate the situation regularly. B’ezrat Hashem, the health threat soon will pass and our community soon will be restored to its full vitality.
 
Even if we cannot daven together or share a l’chaim in Shul, we are still a tight-knit community! We need to make an extra effort to stay close during these times. Call, text, Skype - please do whatever it takes to stay connected! Here’s a challenge: commit to reaching out to two people from the community each day. We all know people who are struggling, alone or just overwhelmed by the stress of the moment - call and let them know you care. 
Additionally, here are a few ways we are continuing to function as a kehilla:
 
Chesed - We are a caring community, and we are deeply concerned about members who are experiencing problems as a result of the current crisis. If you are able, please help us help those in urgent need. See above for some ways that you can help, or give generously to the Shir Hadash on Emek Chesed Fund by clicking here - http://pbme.co/pbj?v=j&g=5e57c96491e9110015973b19
 
Zoom Ruach - Starting Friday March 27, we will convene a pre-Shabbat community Zoom video conference. We will recite tehillim, daven for the sick, and sing together. You will receive a separate invitation to join this video kumsitz.
 
Pre-Pesach learning - Rabbi Kermaier will offer a series of mini-shiurim to help prepare for a deeper, more meaningful seder. Email yaakov@yakir.org if you are interested.
 
This Shabbat is Shabbat Mevarchim, when we bless the new month of Nissan, the month of redemption. A minyan is not required for Birkat Hachodesh; this week you can say the passage from the comfort of your own home. The tefilla includes the following:
 
.יהי רצון מלפניך ה׳ א-לוקינו וא-לוקי אבותינו שתחדש עלינו את החודש הזה לטובה ולברכה, ותתן לנו חיים ארוכים…חיים של פרנסה, חיים של חלוץ עצמות… חיים שימלאו משאלות ליבנו לטובה. אמן סלה.
  
May it be Your will, Hashem, that You renew the coming month for goodness and blessing;  that You grant us long life…a life with sustenance and physical health… a life in which the yearnings of our hearts are fulfilled for good. Amen.
 
Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Kermaier and the Board of Shir Hadash on Emek

• Create a warm and welcoming home for all families in Jerusalem
• Invest in our kids: create a sense of belonging
• Serve as  an inclusive, warm  community to create a dynamic, experiential Jewish life
• Offer a wide range of programming and activities to enhance Jewish identity
• Provide inspirational Torah learning and opportunities for spiritual growth