No One Should Take Their Final Journey Alone
VOLUNTEER WITH THE BOULDER CHEVRA KADISHA
The Boulder Chevra Kadisha performs two sacred rituals for our community: tahara and shmira. Both honor the deceased with dignity and comfort those who mourn. Depending on the ritual, there are different ways to take part — from training as a member to helping with a single shmira shift as a guest. Learn more about each below.
Sit Shmira — Guard a Soul on Its Final Journey
Shmira is the practice of guarding the deceased from the time of death until burial, so no one is left alone. Members are notified of every shmira need; guest shomrim are welcome to sit a single shift with no training or ongoing commitment required.
Perform Tahara — Prepare the Body with Dignity and Care
Tahara is the ritual washing and purification of the body, followed by dressing in traditional burial garments (tachrichim). It is sacred, hands-on work, performed with reverence and care by trained members of our team. Because of the skill and sensitivity this work requires, tahara is performed by trained members of bck.
Become a Member
Join our team and be notified whenever a tahara or shmira need arises in the community. Members take on an ongoing role, may train to perform tahara, and will soon have access to member-only trainings and resources.
Sit Shmira as a Guest
New to the tradition or looking to help for a single shift? Guest shomrim guard the deceased — reciting psalms and keeping watch without any ongoing commitment.