Death
Losing a loved one is never easy.  Our caring clergy will assist you in your hour of need.  Upon learning of a death, Rabbi Tobin, Rabbi Stein or Hazzan Menes will come to your home and meet with your family to learn about your loved one’s story and life, answer your questions and counsel your family.  They will also help plan the details of the funeral, burial and shiva house with you. Beth Shalom clergy and volunteers are available to lead shiva services in your home and our Sisterhood and Chesed volunteers can help prepare the home for shiva if your family desires.

Burial

Jewish custom outlines a specific process for caring for the deceased from the time of their passing through burial.  Rabbi Tobin or Rabbi Stein will help you make all necessary arrangements to put your loved one to rest.

Congregation Beth Shalom owns and maintains its own Jewish cemetery in Raytown, MO. Mount Carmel Cemetery has been part of the congregation’s heritage since the late 1800s, when the earliest members of the Kansas City Jewish community settled here. 

Grieving

Losing someone you love can be very painful. Grieving is a natual part of the healing process.  After a significant loss, you may experience difficult and surprising emotions, such as shock, anger, remorse and/or guilt.  While these feelings can be overwhelming, they are normal reactions to the loss of a loved one. Accepting these feelings as part of the grieving process and allowing yourself to come to terms with these emotions is necessary to start the healing process. There is no right or wrong way to grieve — but there are healthy ways to cope with your loss.  The Beth Shalom clergy, Chesed committee and the Beth Shalom community welcome the opportunity to help you through these difficult times.  Please contact the ritual office at 913-647-7281 if we can provide any assistance.