Bereavement

We are here for you

The loss of a loved one is among life’s most difficult times. Throughout the mourning process, Jewish tradition offers comfort and guidance. We are here for you. If you have specific questions about conducting a funeral or memorial service, or if you need support with the grieving process after a death, please email Rabbi Kunin and Rabbi Roller or call 408-257-3333.

Funeral and Burial

A Jewish funeral and burial are customarily held as soon after death as possible. During the funeral, prayers and poems from Jewish tradition are read. It is also customary for representatives of the family and the rabbi to eulogize the deceased. Following the graveside ceremony, mourners traditionally place soil on the casket as a final gesture of care and respect. Please email for more information or call 408-257-3333.

Congregation Beth David Memorial Garden

In 2000, Beth David purchased land at the Oak Hill Cemetery and established a congregational cemetery, the Beth David Memorial Garden. Please email for more information or call 408-257-3333.

Shivah

Following burial, the family traditionally observes a period of shivah, a period of traditionally 7 days. During shivah, daily worship is held in the mourner’s home, or if it will be a very large gathering, it may be done at Beth David, with friends and community members coming together to form a minyan or prayer quorum. Please email for more information or call 408-257-3333.

Yahrzeit

The yahrzeit, or anniversary of a loved one’s death, is observed with the lighting of a memorial candle and the saying of the Mourner’s Kaddish. On the Shabbat prior to the yahrzeit, the names of loved ones are read aloud prior to the recitation of the Mourner’s Kaddish. Please email for more information or call 408-257-3333.