Attendances at United Synagogue services have remained stable despite concerns over the new Covid variant.

The US last week issued revised safety advice in the light of the warnings over the anticipated rise in Omicron cases.

In addition to its existing guidance for prayer gatherings - which it says many shuls go beyond - it “strongly recommended” congregations making face masks mandatory for Shabbat morning services, as well as at least one metre social distancing. The mask rule does not apply to the service leader or speaker.

“We recommend that this approach is followed for all shul services but recognise that it may not be necessary for those with small attendances in large and very well ventilated spaces.”
The US reported this week that attendances had held up across its communities with no evidence of reduced provision. However, the situation would remain under continual review.