Chevra Kadisha

Chevra Kadisha – Traditional Jewish Burial Practices

Should you want to request that traditional burial rituals be followed for your loved one, CBI is fortunate to have a Chevra Kadisha (meaning “holy society”) consisting of dedicated member-volunteers trained to perform taharah (ritual purification before burial). Chevra Kadisha members also serve as shomrim (guards) for families in our community who choose to follow this traditional practice.

Several Austin congregations, including Congregation Beth Israel, have come together to form Austin Shmirah, a Jewish community-wide group to coordinate Shomrim to meet the entire community’s needs. If you would like to become a member of Austin Shmira or you are interested in learning more about shmira and participating in this final mitzvah for someone, please contact Ezra Kenigsberg. He will be happy to speak with you regarding opportunities to get involved in this sacred work.  Or you can contact Austin Shmira directly via their website.

Furthermore, our rabbis can arrange for shiva minyanim (services in your home following burial) should you choose (even if your loved one is buried out of town). Please contact the Clergy Office for assistance.

An additional benefit of a CBI membership is the ability to purchase burial plots at one of CBI’s three Cemeteries at a substantially-reduced rate.