This holiday season will be the second of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This time last year, many people celebrated the holidays virtually, as the vaccine was not yet widely available.

But this year, the faithful can plan some in-person gatherings to celebrate the holidays.

There was some return to normalcy during Hanukkah for Temple Sholom in Lakeview.

Typically, the temple would have big and beautiful dinners for the holiday, said Rabbi Shoshanah Conover.

Last year, celebrations moved online. However, this year she said a 100 people gathered at the synagogue’s parking lot to light a menorah and make latkes.

The Rev. Sharyon Cosey with ABBA Church of Renewed Faith said worship during the pandemic has been a bit of an oxymoron. While the church has been doing digital outreach instead of face-to-face, it’s been a reward that they’re still able to connect in new ways, she said.

“It’s just getting used to as much as you can to the new way of worshipping,” Cosey said. “It’s challenging because it’s still getting into an arena that is new and rewarding because we’re still able to connect on some level.”