Health and Safety in the Taharah Room

Chevra Kadisha, Taharah

Chevra Kadisha work is sacred. It is also physical, and it comes with real health and safety considerations. From wet floors to lifting and turning the meit/ah/eh, from unexpected medical devices to the possibility of infectious disease, teams are asked to bring their...

Building Meaningful Relationships Between Chevra Kadisha and Funeral Homes

Chevra Kadisha, Uncategorized

Chevra Kadisha groups and funeral homes each bring essential expertise, compassion, and commitment to honoring the deceased and supporting grieving families. Strong partnerships between these groups aren’t just “nice to have”—they are vital for upholding Jewish burial...

Orot HaChevra: A Collective Reflection for Zayin Adar

Chevra Kadisha, Ritual

Each year on Zayin Adar, we pause to honor the sacred work of the Chevra Kadisha. This work is often unseen, yet it shines with deep meaning. This year, members of Chevra Kadisha from around the world have shared their stories, illuminating our shared path. ...

Building Confidence and Leading With Care

Chevra Kadisha, Ritual, Taharah

Leading taharah, the Jewish ritual of preparing the deceased for burial, is an act of deep care, compassion, and presence. Yet, stepping into this role—guiding a team through ritual, honoring the deceased, and navigating varying customs—can feel daunting. Confidence...

Gamliel Institute Student Projects

Chevra Kadisha, Death, Doula, Dying, Funeral, Grief, Mourning

The Gamliel Institute was Kavod v’Nichum’s original and much-respected Chevra Kadisha leadership training program.  Gamliel first accepted students in 2010, educated hundreds, and graduated 52 students over the years. Its final ten graduates were honored at the Kavod...

Collaborative Care: Bridging Chevrei Kadisha and End-of-Life Doulas

Chevra Kadisha, Death, Doula, Dying

By: Heidi Katz While just a decade ago, only a smattering of end-of-life doulas were practicing throughout the United States, by 2024, thousands of trained end-of-life doulas were working nationwide. Awareness of end-of-life doulas is increasing, as evidenced by...