The death of a loved one is a central moment in the life of an individual or family.

Our clergy are available and committed to assisting and guiding families through the process of death and bereavement as much as the family wishes.

If you are or someone you love is suffering from a terminal illness, the clergy are available for counseling and guidance.

Many people are unaware of the Jewish ritual of vidui, a prayer said by someone who is likely approaching the moment of death. Our clergy are available to help someone recite the vidui, or to recite it over a person in the presence of family. While the ability to face the onset of death this openly varies among individuals, please know that you can call on us to discuss this and other matters.

When a loved one dies, please contact the rabbi's assistant in the synagogue office, at 415.221.8736, ext. 101. We will discuss what kind of bereavement rituals you wish to observe, and put you in touch with the wonderful staff at Sinai Memorial Chapel. If you are calling outside office hours, please call the rabbi's emergency hotline at 415.509.5558.

The Jewish tradition for helping individuals and families through the bereavement process is well developed and wise. From the funeral through shiva through the year of mourning and yahrzeits, Jewish rituals of death and bereavement help guide us through terrible moments of loss and towards healing.

Yahrzeit: Anniversary of the death (in Yiddish).