As a kahal, we are embarking on an initiative centered on changing some of our communal Shiva practices to better support mourners.

In October, Daniel Goldman spoke about the range of emotional needs that individuals may have in the week following a funeral. During that program, Rabbi Betsy also spoke about how we hope to improve our practices, and Barry Rich explained why the menu accompanying Daniel's Kolot Kehilla talk featured healthy comfort foods intended to be served only to the grieving family to provide for their sustenance during Shiva.

In November, Nancy Feingold and Rabbi Betsy facilitated a discussion about the grieving process and the complex and varied relationship individuals may have with it. Participants explored prior experiences with Shiva and asked questions about how to handle a variety of situations.