Led by Co-President Loree Devery, the COVID Management Team includes the following staff and members: Adela Basayne, Rabbi Benjamin Barnett, Deborah Eisenbach-Budner, Rachel Pollak, Ben Walters, Oren Kosansky, David Kertzner, Michael Heumann, Richard Goldenberg, and Rachel Plotinsky. The team meets regularly to discuss procedures for and policies related to COVID-19, and to make recommendations to the Steering Committee.

The COVID-19 pandemic created numerous challenges, compelling Havurah Shalom to balance multiple concerns, including (1) our need to avoid infecting ourselves or others, (2) our need for social connection with, and (often) physical proximity to one another, and (3) our need to attend responsibly to the diverse needs of our community members.

The COVID Safety Guidelines for Havurah Shalom (“the Guidelines”) have been created by and discussed in depth with staff, the Co-Presidents, the Vice President, the Immediate Past President, and medical and public health professionals within Havurah who have shared their expertise with us. There are a number of Jewish values underlying these Guidelines. We are attempting to balance the values of Kehillah (community) and Shalom Bayit (the peaceful home), together with Pikuach Nefesh (the preservation of human life).

Havurah leadership is committed to seeking a comfortable home for staff and community, while protecting the health and safety of all. Ultimately, we are desirous of opening our community back up to gathering in person - panim el panim.  Havurah’s Guidelines are regularly revisited and revised as we respond to changing circumstances and public health recommendations. We generally follow definitions, guidelines, and requirements recommended by the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”), the State of Oregon, and Multnomah County. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we attempt to responsibly address this unprecedented situation.  

Read our COVID Safety Guidelines, effective Nov. 1, 2022.