As the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage throughout the world and within Jewish communities—and especially in light of the new virus variants discovered in the United Kingdom and South Africa—public-health guidance dictates continued mask-wearing and social distancing, and vaccination as soon as possible.
The Orthodox Union and the Rabbinical Council of America note that these mitigation efforts against COVID-19 are a halachic responsibility, fulfilling the value of pikuach nefesh—preserving and protecting life.
In that spirit, the OU and Rabbinical Council of America join the call that was issued on Tuesday by Chief Rabbi David Lau, in consultation with HaGaon Rav Chaim Kanievsky, for a national day of tefillah on Jan. 21 (8 Shevat).
They are said in the hope for an end to the pandemic, and healing and restoration to those who have experienced loss, illness and struggle.