Judaic Spirituality Questions

1. How do I get my mom to not fast on Yom Kippur?

   The issue of "fasting on Yom Kippur" will become more prevelant in the coming years as we live longer and, for many of us, deal with chronic medical issues and types of disabilities. I have had this conversation with my own 94 year old mother. Fasting on Yom Kippur is an important statement...
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2. Can a pregnant woman attend a Jewish funeral?

   The question of a pregnant woman attending Jewish funeral speaks to a wide range of customs that are still in evidence in our community. This custom is linked to beliefs that somehow the ambiance of the funeral and death will impact the fetus and thus the child. This custom has currency among some communituies and generations...
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3. Do seniors have to fast on yom kippur

   Hello rake, Thanks for your question. The Kolel website states, "fasting is prohibited if it will threaten one's health. Young children, the elderly and infirm, and pregnant women generally should not fast, even if they want to. If you have any concern about fasting, you should consult a physician or a rabbi for advice...
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4. How Is a Jewish Funeral Service Different From Other Funeral Services?

   Jewish funeral services are generally held very soon after a death occurs -- often on the same day, but within 24 hours if possible -- at a chapel, the gravesite, or both. A closed wooden casket containing the deceased is usually present, draped in a simple cloth. There's no public or private viewing of the body...
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5. How can I convince my mother to set up final arrangements?...

   The issue of how to begin the conversation of planning and paying for final arrangement comes up regularly as I travel doing workshops for congregations in the area of decision making. It is not an easy conversation. It took the death of my mom's sister to have her become more open to such a conversation...
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6. Is this really an Orthodox tradition?

   First of all, let me extend to you my condolences on the loss of your grandmother. The issue you raise is becoming more common as the number of inter-faith families rise. The idea of having your non-Jewish cousin "step-back" from graveside is not based on Jewish law...
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7. Where can I find Shabbat liturgies for home use?

   Shalom: The desire to find liturgies for home shabbat use is growing. Thankfully, there are ahost of resources, both print and electronic. The "Gates of the House" is a tried and true book (published by the CCAR Press in New York) that is perfect for a variety of home ceremonies and has a wonderful home shabbat service...
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