Dear Friends,
It is with heavy hearts that we write to let you know that we are not able to perform in-person funerals or memorial services at this time. In the spirit of the primary Jewish value of pikuach nefesh—of saving life—we are following the guidelines implemented by the Seattle- King County Public Health Department. Regulations permit only “direct burial,” without any mourners or officiants present.
While this is disappointing and frustrating for many, we are inspired by our people’s history of resilient flexibility in the face of daunting challenge.
In keeping with that spirit, we will offer each family that suffers a loss during this time options that best suit their needs and desires. Some may wish a virtual memorial service streamed on a platform like Zoom; others may wish only a call or videoconference with our rabbis or an in-person deferred to a time in the future. For those who wish a streamed service, we will offer options to stream privately to family members only or to include in our congregational death notice so that others may join.
We know that cards, calls and emails are not a complete substitute for human contact, but we are confident in our community’s ability to offer solace in creative ways at this time.
Another change is that our mausoleum is closed. While the cemetery remains open, the recent order by Governor Inslee to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, means that generally no visits should take place for the next two weeks. If you do walk through the cemetery at this time, or after the order is lifted, we do ask that all who visit follow health department guidelines, including observing social distancing (no closer than 6 feet for 10 minutes). We also ask that anyone who is sick not visit the cemetery and that anyone who has been exposed to or is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 remain in quarantine as the public health department has required.
If you have any questions about these policies and practices, please contact Jennifer Phillips, Executive Assistant to the Clergy, at jphillips@tdhs-nw.org or 206-323-8486. She can answer your questions or arrange for you to speak with one of us.
Wishing you health and peace at this unsettling time,
Rabbi Daniel Weiner
Rabbi CB Souther
Rabbi Avi Fine