Why the first in-person gathering for many US Jews may not be so celebratory Debates over the crisis in Israel may not be the most desirable way to start in-person gatherings. But it will be a hard topic to avoid. An Israeli soldier takes cover as an Iron Dome air defense system launches to intercept a rocket from the Gaza Strip, in Ashkelon, southern Israel, Tuesday, May 11, 2021. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit) May 14, 2021 (RNS) — It was supposed to be the first COVID-free holiday American Jews could celebrate in person — a joyous return to synagogue and a celebration of at least some semblance of normalcy.