Yizkor means “may G-d remember, from the Hebrew root zachor and provides us with a special opportunity to connect with our loved ones. It is recited four times a year in the synagogue: on Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, the eighth day of Passover, and the second day of Shavuot. In these prayers we ask G‑d to 'remember' the souls of family and friends who have passed away. Its primary purpose was to honor the deceased by committing to giving tzedakah, charity, in their memory, on the theory that the good deeds of the survivors elevate the souls of the departed. It also enhanced the chances for personal atonement by doing a deed of lovingkindness. Even if you do not plan on attending services on Yom Kippur you can still give tzedakah in the merit of your loved ones. 

Inscribing a loved ones’ name in the Yizkor Booklet is a way of honoring our relatives, friends, and members of our congregation who have passed. Not only will the Yizkor booklet include the names of loved ones being memorialized but it will contain prayers and other materials related to the Yizkor service.

At First Congregation Sons of Isreal, we will mention every name in the Yizkor booklet at each of the four Yizkor services throughout the year. To participate, please fill out the form. Submission deadline is Wednesday, September 2nd.