It is with a great sense of excitement and an overwhelming feeling of responsibility that I write these opening remarks.  This first newsletter will hopefully define, if not fully, the goals, direction, and atmosphere of our Association.

   Our ultimate goal is really quite simple.  It is to articulate and convey the meaning and beauty of the traditional Jewish burial practices that honor and respect all Jews at their time of death as defined by our Torah and Mesorah - the direct transmission of our laws and customs from generation to generation.  We call this חסד של אמת  - "Chesed Shel Emes," true kindness - because it is not subject to individual or cultural influences, but rather objectively true and defined by our Torah, reflecting our most sacred beliefs and essentially unchanged for millennia. (read more)

Linen Shrouds

Simple, Mystical Beauty

When possible, burial shrouds are to be made of linen.

The Talmud records an enactment by Rabbi Gamliel the Elder. In order to maintain a balance between burial clothes being "respectful" but with their not being too costly and ostentatious he instituted that shrouds should be of white linen.  Although, when necessary, other white materials may be used, linen is much preferred.  Aside from the simple beauty of white linen, there are deep mystical reasons behind this practice, as well. 

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   Chevra Kadisha members are aware of the deep spiritual feelings and humbling effect of tending to the needs of the dead.  But the sense that participation in Chevra Kadisha activities is part of a millennia-old chain of Jewish tradition is often lost.  The recognition of the Chevra Kadisha as a Holy Society, essential, vibrant and active, revered and glorified in Jewish communities across the globe, is forgotten.  The reality is that membership in this Holy Society was considered a unique privilege, available to a select few, and at times only inherited from parents.  These facts are sometimes taught to new Chevra members, but then get stored away in some mental file.  (read more)

   The National Association of Chevra Kadisha office has been busy working toward the goals defining our mission; promoting Halachic burial and enhancing Kovod Hames.  Here is a summary of recent activity.  (read more)