Why do we need funerals or memorials?

A funeral or memorial provides family and friends an opportunity to say goodbye, to mourn and to grieve. It is a source of closure and an opportunity to remember how our loved ones lived and to celebrate the lives they lived with us. (Information on cremation is listed below.)

What makes a funeral Jewish?

The guideline of Kavod HaMeit, which means to provide honor and respect to the deceased, is governed by Rabbinical Laws and Customs.

Preparation of the Meit/Meita (Deceased)

The observant Jewish procedure for preparation of the deceased is a purification ritual called Taharah. This is a respectful deeply spiritual washing performed by a select group called the Chevra Kadisha (Sacred Society).

The Taharah includes dressing the Meit/Meita in a simple white garment called Tachrichim. This garment is symbolic of the equality of all people.

Shmeera (Guarding)

Most funeral homes leave at night and lock the doors. Our facility has a manager living onsite in order to ensure that those entrusted to our care are not left alone overnight.

Aron (Casket)

The Aron for an observant Jewish Funeral is made entirely of wood with no metal. The glues used are not animal based and they are not manufactured on the Jewish Sabbath. These caskets are also appropriate for Green Burial.

Kaddish

This is considered by many Jewish people to be the most important part of the funeral ritual. Although this prayer makes no mention of death or mourning it is associated with funerals by even the least observant. We provide copies of this prayer in Hebrew as well as transliterated in English and Russian lettering.

Make it Personal

The Setting: We can coordinate services in traditional settings as well as locations that reflect your personal interests. Whether you’re an antique collector, golfer, car buff or wine enthusiast we can match you to an appropriate location. Facilities available include museums, historical mansions and wineries.

The Officiator: If you do not have you own officiator, you can select from a list of accomplished speakers who can reflect your values and religious beliefs. If the family chooses to speak we can arrange for a master of ceremonies to bring it all together.

Attend Services from Anywhere Worldwide:

We offer live transmission of funeral services over the internet. Family and friends worldwide can hear and see the funeral as it happens. They can even sign the guestbook and send a personal message.

What about Cremation?

We incorporate the highest level of dignity and respect for those entrusted to our care for cremation. Whether the deceased is to be viewed or not we dress the individual as a matter of respect. Our staff stays at the crematory with the person to ensure everything is properly handled.

Both cremation and embalming are considered contrary to Jewish practices. There are Jewish Clergy that will not officiate for either of these types of services.