NO ONE SHOULD TAKE THEIR FINAL JOURNEY ALONE
A SIMPLE PROMISE OF RESPECT
There is an ancient tradition called shmira(guarding). It is the simple act of sitting with a member of our community from the time they pass until they are laid to rest.
This tradition is a profound act of chesed shel emet (true kindness) given freely to someone who can never repay you. It is the ultimate expression of community, dignity, and honor.
We believe that no one should leave this life alone. By sitting for just two hours, you are providing a watchful and comforting presence to a community member. It is a quiet, powerful way to say,
Shmira Resources
JADE provides education, guidance, and support for the Jewish community by offering access to and delivering Jewish wisdom about the end-of-life continuum.
The Hineni Tool by JADE offers quick, direct information about Jewish end-of-life customs, traditions, and rituals. Choose to explore the topics through four different perspectives: practical, emotional, textural, and spiritual. In addition, the Hineni tool offers additional information for a deeper understanding of end-of-life topics.
Kavod v’Nichum empowers, educates, and trains Chevra Kadisha – sacred communities that come together at the end of life to care for the deceased and comfort the living through Jewish rituals and traditions.
Historical Spotlight: Shmira in Times of Crisis
"A Nation Challenged: Vigil; Stretching a Jewish Vigil for the Sept. 11 Dead" By Jane Gross — The New York Times (Nov. 6, 2001)
Shmira - A First-Hand Account
from the blog of the Velveteen Rabbi (an anonymous blog) May 5, 2006
Interesting Reads…
Shmira Buddy Program
Supporting New Volunteers in Sacred Circles
The Boulder Chevra Kadisha Shmira Buddy Program pairs new or less-experienced shmira volunteers with seasoned members of our community who have performed shmira many times. New volunteers can request a buddy to sit alongside them during their shift — someone who knows the rhythm of the vigil, can answer questions, and simply offers the comfort of a familiar presence.
This program is entirely voluntary and low-pressure. There is no obligation to request a buddy, and no judgment for doing so. We want every volunteer to feel prepared, grounded, and supported as they take on this sacred responsibility.
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For New Members
When you join the chevra or when you are contacted about an upcoming shmira need, simply let the coordinator know you would like a buddy to join you.
The coordinator will match you with an available experienced buddy and connect you before the shift so you can introduce yourselves.
Your buddy will arrive with you, guide you through what to expect, and sit alongside you for the duration of the shift.
For Experienced Members (Buddies)
If you are willing to serve as a buddy, please let the coordinator know.
When a new volunteer requests a buddy for a shift that matches your availability, you will be contacted.
You are never obligated to accept; simply let the coordinator know if you are unavailable.
Your role is to be a calm, knowledgeable presence — answering questions, modeling the practice, and offering quiet companionship.
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The buddy will walk with you through every aspect of the shift:
Arrival and check-in at the funeral home or location
Orienting to the space and what is appropriate
Recitation of Psalms and other traditional readings
Maintaining respectful silence and presence with the met
Transitioning at the end of the shift
After the shift, you are encouraged to debrief informally with your buddy — sharing what you experienced, what felt meaningful, or any questions that arose.
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Any Boulder Chevra Kadisha member or guest shomrim is welcome to request a buddy — not only those brand new to shmira. You might want a buddy if:
This is your first time performing shmira
You have done shmira before, but it has been a long time
The deceased is someone you knew personally
You are going through a difficult time yourself and want support
You simply want company — and that is reason enough
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To request a buddy for an upcoming shift, or to volunteer as a buddy for new shomrim, please send an email to Boulder.Chevra@gmail.com. We will do our best to make a match for every request.
The most important thing you bring into the shmira room is your kavanah -
your sincere intention to be present.
What To Do During a Shmira Shift
Read
The shomrim can read or recite Psalms or other texts on spirituality or Jewish traditions on end-of-life and mourning.
Appropriate reading material is provided in the Shmira Room, or you may bring your own appropriate reading material.
Quiet Meditation or Reflection
Many find this a meaningful time for quiet study or personal reflection.
You might find yourself simply thinking about your own life or the person you are with. That is okay.
Just “Be”
Your primary job isn't to do anything—it is simply to be. Because you are there to perform this mitzvah, you are already doing it right. Your presence is the act itself.
Tips and Advice for Sitting Shmira
Bring a sweater and wear comfortable clothes
If you are leaving after hours, make sure you have your keys and your phone before you leave.
Self-Care: It’s okay to feel emotional. "You are doing a hard thing”
Taking Breaks: If your voice gets tired, it is perfectly okay to read silently or take a short moment of quiet meditation.
Bring Grounding Materials: If you find it difficult to sit and read Psalms for 2 hours - bring your own material.
Arrive Early - allow yourself time to transition from the outside world.
VOLUNTEER FOR SHMIRA