Funerals and Mourning Rituals in the Time of COVID-19

The twin mitzvot of comforting the mourners and bringing honour to the deceased are our priority, even under such trying circumstances. Our Rabbis, Cantors, and Professional Staff are here to support you as always.

Most of the information here is still relevant: https://holyblossom.org/life-cycle/#end

Designed with the good guidance of the Ministry of Health, the following are the extraordinary protocols for these extraordinary circumstances, many of which are lessening or lifting now.

Funerals

While Ontario is opening up, there are still restrictions for funeral services. Please see the Registrar’s Directive or speak to the funeral home you are using for more info. Properly worn face masks are required and physical distancing must be followed. We require vaccine passports for all indoor Holy Blossom funerals.

These rituals are as powerful as ever – if not more so. We are confident the ceremonies will be a great source of comfort even though adapted to keep everyone healthy.

Shiva

As you may be aware many mourners now conduct Shiva in person, outdoors and indoors; while others conduct them virtually. Your family needs to determine the Covid protocols you wish to follow and whether visitors must be double vaccinated. If you’d like some guidance about how to establish a Virtual Shiva via Zoom, Iris Spitz can be your guide. Iris can be reached at [email protected].

Shiva Services

Mourners have two options.

1. You can join the daily services conducted by our Rabbis and Cantors via Zoom or in-person (registration required for in-person services). Service times and simple links may be found here. The name of your loved one will be remembered before Kaddish.
2. If you’d like our volunteer Shiva Service leaders to lead just your circle of family and friends in a tailor-made service via Zoom, that can be arranged for you. These shiva services are held at 8:00 pm, Sunday – Thursday.
3. Download the Shiva Book here