SJCA Presents What We Do for One Another: Death and Jewish Ritual, Sept. 18, 2025, 7 pm on Zoom
Saratoga Jewish Community Arts, with a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York, and the sponsorships of Temple Sinai and The Jewish Burial Society of Saratoga Springs, presents a unique educational program on Zoom entitled, What We Do for One Another: Death and Jewish Ritual – How we care for one another at the end of life, and why it matters, on September 18 at 7 pm.
What does Jewish custom teach about death, mourning, and the sacred responsibility we carry for one another? Through learning, reflection, and open conversation, we will uncover what Jewish tradition teaches about honoring both the living and the dead with dignity and compassion, and how these practices can deepen our care for one another in every stage of life.
This exceptional session, led by national nonprofit organization Kavod v’Nichum, explores the power of Jewish ritual in moments of loss, the meaning behind end-of-life practices, and the role of the Chevra Kadisha, the groups of volunteers who honor and care for both the deceased and the living.
This straightforward introduction to Jewish end-of-life practices includes rituals such as taharah, funeral, burial, shiva, and more. We’ll explore the role of those volunteers who ensure that no one is alone at the end of life, and we’ll reflect on how these ancient rituals offer meaning, comfort, and connection in a modern context. Whether you’re new to this topic or seeking a deeper understanding, this session will open the door to a tradition deeply rooted in compassion and care.
This is the first of two programs from Kavod v’Nichum. On October 26, SJCA will present Chevra Kadisha and Community Building: A hands-on Taharah training session.
Please join us whether you’re hearing and exploring these topics for the first time, or you are already participating in the mitzvah of this work.
Presenters:
Sarit Wishnevski is Executive Director of Kavod v’Nichum and is a national leader in educating and supporting Chevra Kadisha groups across North America.
Heidi Katz directs the Community Chevra Kadisha of South Berkshire County, Massachusetts. She is an educator and end-of-life doula, and an alumna of the Olam Chesed Builders Program.
For more information about Kavod v’Nichum, visit https://kavodvnichum.org/.
How to Register
The program is free but pre-registration is required. Click the QR code below or enter
this URL address in your browser: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/Use8fRo/WhatWeDo