The Role of the Rabbi or Synagogue

The rabbi or synagogue representative can help in many ways.  They know who to contact to take care of what needs attention – contacting the funeral home that is most appropriate, contacting the Chevra Kadisha (team who prepares the body for burial), notifying the caring committee of the community to help the family, making arrangements for burial and the funeral service, transportation of the body as needed, providing shiva candles, making Kaddish arrangements, and other things that help the family at this vulnerable time.  The rabbi can also help council the family in a number of ways, including but not limited to understanding Jewish mourning practices, emotional support and guidance, and spiritual leadership.