Mourning & Bereavement

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Traditional Jewish mourning and bereavement practices are designed to help us bear our grief. But sometimes we need something more: a poem that captures our imagination, a creative ritual that addresses the particularity of our grief, a song that speaks to our heart. May you find a measure of comfort in your time of need.

Latest Rituals

“The names go on and on, / the rabbi’s voice unwavering…”
“The candles glow, tender, bright, something like your presence in my heart.”
“Visions of forest-green diminish / until another time.”
“The voice of a hazan may soar to the top of the ark and beyond…”
Were you there, in wisps // of dreams that eluded me? // Maybe you’re off doing whatever // soul work awaited you. Or poof, // evaporated.
This lovely ritual can be adapted for the loss of any animal companion
“May we have the time /  to navigate our grief / with grace / at a pace  all our own. “
Maggid Eli Andrew Ramer shares a variety of new prayers including a Kaddish and Vidui for the planet.
“Grief sneaks up on you / It taps you on your shoulder…”

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