About Chevrah Kadisha

More than a “Burial Society,” a Chevrah Kadisha cares for the Jewish community in times of need. We welcome strangers, visit the sick, comfort the bereaved, console and counsel, offer guidance, and provide meals of consolation. Chevrah members are “Holy Friends,” educators, navigators, prayer leaders, caring companions, mikvah attendants, guardians, shroud makers, casket builders, and grave diggers. We are holders of Wholeness.

Since relocating from Hawaii I am no longer a member of a specific Chevrah Kadisha. While in Hawaii I served as Rosha and Rabbinic Advisor for the Maui Chevrah Kadisha and President of the Hawaii Inter-Island Chevrah Kadisha. I am happy to answer any questions you might have and to help connect you with an appropriate chevrah.

Resources

  • To read Last Acts of Compassion: A Guide for Community Chevra Kadisha Groups Click Here

  • For a Glossary of Mourning Terms Click Here

  • For the MCK Tahara Guide Click Here

  • For an example of Chevrah Kadisha protocols Click Here

  • For an example of egalitarian cemetery protocols Click Here

  • To learn how to create an Ethical WillClick Here.

  • To read, "A Letter to the Taharah Team" Click Here

  • To see some interesting historical paintings of Jewish funeral practices Click Here

  • For information on course offerings at the Gamliel Institute Click Here

  • To read about How to Make a Shiva Call Click Here