Putting the Infirmed above Technology Prohibition: Conservative Synagogue Ohev Shalom Fills Void for Homebound Jews with Hig

Richboro, PA…There is a time in every spiritual leader’s life when he or she must decide between tradition and compassion. Ohev Shalom of Bucks County Senior Rabbi Eliott Perlstein had such a moment three years ago when he resolved to serve the needs of sick and disabled members who could not attend High Holy Day services by broadcasting the service via livestream technology.

In the past, the Conservative synagogue had based decisions on such issues as adding instrumental music on Shabbat on a six month review of rabbinic text and responsa literature, followed by deliberation between Rabbi, Religious Committee and Board of Directors.

That was not the case, when Rabbi Perlstein emphatically stated that it was “morally imperative” that Ohev Shalom livestream Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. “I believe that Judaism’s expression of compassion and caring for the ill is so profound it outweighs any of the arguments that would prohibit the use of this technology. I see this technology as a gift for inclusion rather than any type of intrusion into the service or tradition,” he stressed.

And so, the synagogue began to explore options for delivering Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services via a livestream video production. Luckily, the search was shorter than anticipated. Lifetime member Jared Pashko owned Smash Productions, one of the production companies considered during the proposal process. Having been Bar Mitzvahed by Rabbi Perlstein in 2001, Pashko had a clear understanding of the worship experience that Ohev Shalom provided its members, and knew what was needed to emulate this same experience for those praying remotely.

“We wanted to create a feeling of being part of the service…like you were there,” says Pashko. To achieve this, Smash employs four cameras focused on the ark, the Torah table, the Rabbi and the Cantor. The operator uses digital zooms when appropriate to give the service a more intimate feeling. Audio coming from the house system and video feed simultaneously into a production station. Graphics are added when appropriate. Smash then employs a third party livestream system to broadcast the service on the internet. According to Pashko, non-Jewish staff oversee the onsite production. Following the livestream, the service is uploaded to Ohev Shalom’s website for future viewing globally and without cost.

Between 2013 and 2014, the number of people signing in to view services has increased by 60 percent with more signups expected this year. Preregistration at www.ohev.org/live is not required.

By all accounts feedback regarding the livestream has been extremely positive. “I have members who have worshipped with us from hospital beds and members with disabilities who wanted more than anything to be with us on these most holy days. Now they are with us…and we are with them,” said Perlstein.

To participate in the service via livestream, visit www.ohev.org/live.

ABOUT OHEV SHALOM OF BUCKS COUNTY
Ohev Shalom has been serving the Jewish community of Bucks County since its founding in 1976. Affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, it is a vibrant and dynamic congregation that is committed to serving the spiritual, cultural, educational and social needs of its congregational family. Ohev Shalom celebrates the uniqueness of each individual and welcomes diversity within its sacred community. For information about Ohev Shalom, go to www.ohev.org.