candle-flame

When Death Occurs : Immediate Steps

 

For those who have just suffered a loss, here’s a quick outline of immediate steps to take:

  1. Call a Jewish Funeral Director to arrange for pick-up of the body and to learn the available times for the funeral at a Jewish Cemetery (cemetery property must be purchased if not already arranged for pre-need).

  2. Call the WSIS office (212-877-7652) to inform the clergy and staff, and to learn the availability of the Rabbis to conduct the funeral. You should ask for Ira Oren or Chet Lipson. If your call is after hours, one should call the WSIS switchboard and leave Rabbi Einhorn a message . The rabbi will return your phone call.

  3. Based upon these initial calls, arrange for a time for the funeral.

  4. Have your Havurah, friends, or family or hospice volunteer make calls to family and friends with the funeral information.

  5. If not already arranged for pre-need, purchase the coffin.

  6. Have your Havurah, close friends, family or hospice volunteer arrange for the Shivah Meals.

 

Our synagogue finds power and strength in expressing reverence for God when someone reaches the end of life. The Talmud explains that Shekhinah (God’s presence) stands at the head of a dying person. We are fortunate to be God’s partners in treating the deceased with respect and honor, and to participate in the holy work of comforting the mourner. While the conversations surrounding death and dying are often difficult and confusing, it is our hope that as a community, we will mark the end of someone’s life with as much blessing and sanctity as we do for one entering this world.

It says in Isaiah, “God gives strength to the weary, fresh vigor to the spent.” With this guide and our community, Sinai Temple strives to be one of your strengths. Through our learning and exploration of the end of life, may we grow with God and sustain one another.

 

Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn