Jewish Funeral Home and Services in Highland Park, NJ
Are you searching for a Jewish funeral home in Highland Park, NJ? There are many funeral homes in the area, but not all of the services can offer the Jewish traditions that you need. It is important to consider the culture of your family, ensuring that all of the details match your preferences.
Here at Mount Sinai Memorial Chapels, we specialize in Jewish customs and traditions for funeral services. We understand the unique options that are available. Our goal is to offer a custom plan that will accommodate the needs and desires of your family. If you have questions about these services, then you are always welcome to contact our team for more information.
As you are planning a Jewish funeral, you will see that it requires more than a conversation with a Rabbi. You need to choose a funeral service provider that has a thorough understanding of the culture and practices.
Common Customs in the Jewish Culture
Do you need more information about the common customs that should be included in the funeral services? We are happy to answer your questions and offer the guidance that you need. These are some of the options that you might consider:
- Funeral Location: In some instances, the funeral might be held in the Synagogue, but only if the deceased was an active member. If you want to use this location, then you will need to talk to the Rabbi. Otherwise, many families choose to have the event in a funeral home. This venue is comfortable and accommodating for all of the needs of the day. The third option is to hold the entire funeral at the cemetery before the graveside service.
- Time of Burial: Jewish custom states that the body should be buried within 24 hours of death. Preferably, the burial will be done as soon as possible. Although, adjustments can be made to accommodate unique situations as needed.
- Funeral Preparations: In addition to talking to a funeral home, it is also important to coordinate the details with the Rabbi. Often, the Rabbi gives the eulogy and oversees the events of the day. Family members can provide details about the life of the deceased to help with the eulogy. Other preparations need to be done before the funeral, so you should arrive 45 minutes early to complete the paperwork.
- Burial Dress: Most Jewish people are buried in the same clothing, representing equality among all people. The clothes are made of white linen fabric. Usually, they include pants, a cap, and a shirt. The design of the clothing originated from the clothes worn by the High Priest on Yom Kippur.
- Attendee Attire: There isn’t a specific dress code that needs to be met by attendees of the funeral. But, it is encouraged for everyone to wear clothing that is respectful for the deceased. If a traditional k’riyah is done, then usually the funeral home will provide ribbons to use for the cutting. This modern method eliminates the need for attendees to cut their clothing.
- Children in Attendance: It is common for people to wonder if children should be in attendance. This decision is up to the preferences of each family. But, many people invite children to attend as an education opportunity. Jewish custom views the funeral as part of the cycle of life. So, children can learn from the event.
Here at Mount Sinai Memorial Chapels, we understand the importance of incorporating Jewish tradition into your funeral plan. If you have questions or need assistance with anything, then you can always reach out to our team for more information.
Jewish Graveside Traditions
The graveside service is viewed as the most important part of the Jewish funeral tradition. It is encouraged that all family members should attend to honor the memory of the deceased. These services are designed in a specific way to pay respects to the loved one.
The graveside events begin when the family arrives at the cemetery. The casket is moved to the grave, with the family following along with the casket. After the casket is lowered in the grave, the attendees are invited to participate in the burial. Everyone takes a turn with the shovel, adding a scoop of dirt into the grave.
The Rabbi shares a prayer, and then everyone lines up forming two lines. The immediate family members walk between the two lines as the other attendees offer words of comfort.
Plan a Jewish Funeral
If you need to plan a Jewish funeral in Highland Park, NJ, then our team is here to help. We invite you to schedule a consultation to learn more about the ways that we can support your traditions. Mount Sinai Memorial Chapels is located at 454 Cranbury Road (at Evergreen Blvd.), East Brunswick, NJ 08816. Call if you would like more information about the services that are offered: (800) 395-9199 or (732) 390-9199
