The US is, in any case, discouraging those over 70 from attending services.
In new guidance issued on Sunday, the US said that bnei mitzvah or brit milah ceremonies that form part of a regular service — and a shivah incorporated into maariv (the evening service) — were still permitted.
Director of services Jo Grose said: “We will continue to support our communities whatever decision they take, adding a range of online programmes for those which close.”
These would include “daily online davening three times a day on weekdays on our Facebook page in addition to our popular Kabbalat Shabbat series. We will continue with our ‘Kaddish pairing project’ to ensure those who are unable to attend a minyan can have kaddish said in memory of a loved one.”
There is no cap on the number of worshippers at a service in England as long as masks are worn and social distancing observed.
In Tier 4 areas,funerals can continue with 30 people present but stone-settings are now restricted to six people.
