"If someone asks me where my sister is, I can simply say that she is in rehab. There is no shame in that"
Recently I have come across many articles in your magazine lamenting the fact that some large communities and groups across the Orthodox spectrum have been conducting mass gatherings. I have found many articles to be offensive and often off the mark. Careful consideration and research is necessary before cynically questioning the motives of large “fringe” groups and their leaders during these difficult times.
The leaders, namely chassidishe rebbes, have taken an approach that the physical, mental, emotional, and, mainly, spiritual health of their chassidim are of utmost importance. Furthermore, bringing devices with Internet into our homes, even with a strong filter, is antithetical to everything we have worked on until now. Therefore, it is a conscious decision on our part to continue with in-person occasions as opposed to virtual events — of course, with vigilant regard for physical health as well.
For example, at one such event, widespread Covid and antibody testing took place before the mass gathering and wedding, and participants with a negative antibody test were told to stay home.
The inspiration garnered at these events keeps participants spiritually connected, something we cannot afford to give up these days. It’s what we chassidim have been doing through the ages — staying responsibly different for the sake of our continuity.
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