It is the noblest Jewish tradition to honour and cherish the memory of those we have loved and lost - parents, a spouse, siblings and all those dear to us. By participating in Shaare Zedek's Yahrzeit programme, you have the opportunity to perpetuate their memory in the sacred city of Jerusalem. Your participation will also be a gift of life to those patients who depend on Shaare Zedek Medical Centre to care for them and to heal them.

The saying of the Kaddish prayer - "Yitgadal V'yitkadash..." is the tribute we can pay to a loved one who has departed this world.

The observance of Yahrzeit was implemented when the hospital was founded a century ago, for Shaare Zedek is imbued with Jewish tradition and precepts. Daily services are attended regularly at Shaare Zedek's beautiful Synagogue by the staff, patients, visitors and families living close by. You receive a letter reminding you of the Yahrzeit date well in advance, so that you can observe it in your own way in addition to the commemoration at Shaare Zedek.

The first year of Mourning

At this time, Kaddish is recited the requisite three times daily, and "Mishnayot" are learned each day in the name of the departed. A memorial plaque with individual illumination is erected on the Synagogue"s Yahrzeit Memorial Panel for the entire 12-month mourning period.

The Annual Memorial

Each year, on the correct Hebrew date, Yahrzeit is observed for the 24-hour memorial period. Kaddish is recited three times a day at the daily services, and Mishnayot are learned in the merit of the departed. A memorial plaque and light is erected in the Synagogue approximately a week before the Yahrzeit and burns until a few days after the date. The traditional Yiskor prayers are recited, mentioning the name of your loved one, on Pesach, Shavuot, Yom Kippur and Shemini Atzeret. The deceased's name is entered in the hospital's Memorial Book.

Observing the Yahrzeit of loved ones is a Mitzvah which moves the deceased towards eternal life.

If you wish to initiate a Yahrzeit Programme, Contact Us or call Talya on 020 8201 8933.

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