Mission Statement
The Chevra Kadisha of Cleveland was created to assist in defining, establishing, and achieving the highest degree of Kovod Hames (Respect for the Deceased) as defined by Jewish law.
Activities
Creation & Development of Programs
Creating specific, innovative programs geared to reducing the incidence of cremation, assisting in the burial of the indigent, and generally guiding Jewish people to traditional burial choices. Utilizing the NASCK network to see these programs advanced, taught, adopted and supported nationally.
Chevra Kadisha Training, Seminars & Conferences
Training individuals in the laws and hands-on techniques and procedures of Chevra Kadisha involvement in the hospital, funeral home, house of Shiva, etc. Local & regional conferences providing inspirational lectures, workshops and informational programming utilizing many media forms.
Website, Newsletter, Educational material
Maintaining an active webpage and publishing a newsletter, pamphlets, and other material that discuss Jewish laws, current practices, and all matters relating to burial in Halacha. Serving as a resource to clergy, Chevros Kadisha, funeral homes, cemeteries, all health-related agencies providing end-of-life services, and the community-at-large. Providing support and education, facilitating networking, and sharing information and experience.
Establishing New Chevros Kadisha
Helping in the establishment and development of new Chevros Kadisha in congregational and communal settings. Assisting in setting standards and recommended practices.
Grief & Bereavement
Helping the clergy and Chevra Kadisha members deal with their own emotions and the counseling of others with whom they interact. Utilizing the time of grief and bereavement to introduce and teach Jews the basic tenets of our faith.
Tracking, Developing & Assessing legal issues
Developing and supporting legislative initiatives that assist the work and goals of traditional Jewish burial practices and maintaining a watch for any legislative initiatives that could be hurtful to such goals.
Burying the Indigent (Mes Mitzvah)
Developing a North American network for addressing Jewish people who are indigent and/or without family. Making sure that the indigent is buried quickly and in accordance with Jewish law.
Board of Trustees
Yossi Klein
Nati Klein
Ellen Jacoby
Selma Helman
Sherrie Mendenhall
Rabbinic Board
Rabbi Baruch Hirschfield
Rabbi Nissim Abrin
Officers
Heshy Neiman
PRESIDENT
Tzvi Turner
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
Eva Cohen
Chairperson
Esther Reichman
Chairperson