OVERVIEW & BENEFITS - JEWISH SACRED SOCIETY - CHEVRE KADDISHA
Jewish law and custom provide guidance for every life cycle event: birth, bar/bat mitzvah, marriage and death. The overriding principle of Jewish burial customs is kavod hameit, (respect for the body of the deceased). One important way we demonstrate this respect is in the traditional ritual preparation for burial, known as tahara (purification), a ceremony conducted by the Chevre Kaddisha (Holy Society). The Chevre Kaddisha of Greater Albuquerque is a group of dedicated volunteers trained to conduct this ritual free of charge for any member of the Jewish community. Participation in the Chevre Kaddisha is a mitzvah, an act of lovingkindness. There are almost fifty men and women members of the Chevre Kaddisha of Greater Albuquerque.
SERVICES
Our Chevre Kaddisha goes to the funeral home and prepares the body for burial in accordance with Jewish tradition and community standards.
PROGRAM DETAILS
How to arrange a tahara: Ask the presiding funeral director or Rabbi to contact the JFS Community Chaplaincy program. A member of the family may request services directly by calling 505.291.1818 x 5481.
Fee: There is no charge for a tahara. The family is responsible for the cost of the burial shroud. (The family will be billed for the burial expenses by the funeral home or direct service facility.) Contributions to the Jewish Sacred Society are graciously accepted, and assist in defraying training costs and necessary supplies and materials.
Volunteers needed: Yes, training is offered periodically throughout the year and new members of our Chevre Kaddisha are always welcome. Click here to learn more about our Volunteer program.
CONTACT
Rabbi Min Kantrowitz
505.291.1818 x 5481
rabbikantrowitz@jfsnm.org