Reform Judaism has written to all its communities strongly urging them to remain closed for in-person activities during the current lockdown. It pointed out that “whilst our synagogues are legally permitted to open, this does not mean we must or should do so”.

The letter cited the Jewish value of pikuach nefesh, the obligation to preserve life, as central to its advice. Members were also encouraged to get their Covid vaccinations as soon as they were invited to do so.

Rabbi Celia Surget, chair of the Assembly of Reform Rabbis and Cantors, said: “It would be particularly devastating for the virus to be allowed to spread in our communities now when the prospect of the vaccines delivering widespread immunity is so close.

“Despite the need for physical distancing, a huge amount of work from clergy, staff and lay leadership has enabled our communities to be as close as ever. Collectively, we have provided a spiritual refuge which our members have needed and valued.”

Reform synagogues have been hosting Shabbat services online since March, in addition to providing other digital provision including religion school, pastoral support and community events.

A few communities had been running small-scale in-person services when legally permitted. But according to a Reform spokesperson, none were currently doing so, although Maidenhead Synagogue would be holding bar- or batmitzvah services.

Maidenhead minister Rabbi Jonathan Romain said it had been “very disappointing” to have to abandon plans to resume physical learning at its religion school. “There are few pleasures greater than hearing the sound of 136 children chattering away on a Sunday morning.”

He had also started a drive to call isolated members “both to offer moral support and to find out if they have any practical needs. Although everyone has been through a lockdown before, this time there is a deep sense of mental exhaustion.”