They added, “Important issues are involved which need to be given thoughtful consideration. All members of the team are deeply committed to the observance of Shabbat and Yomtov according to halachah, as well as to caring for their congregations, communally, emotionally and spiritually. They expect to have a full response by late June.”
In May, the American Conservative Committee on Jewish Law and Standards voted by 19 votes to three to allow streamed services provided that technology was not switched on or off during Shabbat or festivals.
The committee published papers both for and against the practice.
In the pro-steaming responsum, Rabbi Joshua Heller said "the equipment must be set up to be running before the holy day, or operate on a timer".
While Masorti follows rabbinic law, it is more flexible in its application than Orthodox communities.
For example, it has permitted Kaddish to be said in digital prayer meetings – in contrast to the United Synagogue.
Meanwhile, the movement is considering options for the High Holy Days. “This will include personal contact wherever possible, the dissemination of written study and reflective materials, the provision of whatever in-person services can be prudently provided and allowed by September, along with online study, discussions and prayers,” the rabbis said.
