Paul Fabian was a regular attendee of Bushey United Synagogue’s lunch and learn programme until a spinal operation left him housebound for six weeks.
Luckily for him, the shul's Rabbi Elchonon Feldman had a “very modern idea” which has enabled the 68-year-old to paticipate in the sessions virtually using FaceTime.
“I really enjoyed going to the sessions as it was a chance for me to meet people, have a nice lunch and talk about Torah, but also actually anything and everything," Mr Fabian told the JC.
“The group has such a warm feeling of love and caring for one another so when I was told I had to have spinal surgery I was disappointed that I wouldn’t be able to attend, thinking I’d miss out and get bored at home.”
But Rabbi Elchonon intervened, teaching Mr Fabian to FaceTime into the sessions from home.
“He told me that I would be able to hear what everyone was talking about and contribute to the session if I wanted to.
“I didn’t know you could do that sort of thing so I was very happy. I thought it was so simple and a great way for people who are bed-bound or unable to travel for whatever reason to still take part.”
The shul even arranged for the same lunch enjoyed by the other participants to be delivered to his home so he would have the full experience.
“I know it might not sound like a big deal but it really meant a lot to me and I think it is a great thing for them to have organised,” Mr Fabian added.
“Surely that is the great lesson of what community is really all about.”
He wanted to share his story because it would “be a great if it could be done across the community for other people who might need it”.
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