Appeal launched for major Chevra upgrade
For the first time in more than 70 years, the Sydney Chevra Kadisha has launched a major capital appeal for a much-needed upgrade of its Woollahra chapel and facilities to help future-proof the community's needs when it comes to funeral arrangements and services.
FOR the first time in more than 70 years, the Sydney Chevra Kadisha has launched a major capital appeal for a much-needed upgrade of its Woollahra chapel and facilities to help future-proof the community’s needs when it comes to funeral arrangements and services.
The 200-year-old Jewish institution also activated its new website on June 18, featuring details about the building project and a new information section about Jewish burial rites and mourning, complete with video-based explanations from nine Sydney rabbis.
Development approval has been granted by Woollahra Council to increase the chapel hall seating capacity by 50 per cent, improve heating and air-conditioning, double the Tahara area, upgrade security, extend the foyer area, and create new facilities including an education centre and a private meeting room.
The organisation’s president, Dr Mendel Monk, said it is vital the upgrade goes ahead to meet current and future demand and improve and expand dated facilities, and any support from the community is welcome.
“The Sydney Chevra Kadisha is the sole Jewish burial service covering the entire community in NSW – from the ultra orthodox to the unaffiliated – and irrespective of financial means, no Jew will ever miss out on a Jewish burial,” Monk said.
“Since our inception, a band of volunteers together with our committed management team, continue to perform the holy rituals of Jewish burial with dignity and respect, seven days per week.
“They are an unsung group of individuals who perform their duties with unrelenting dedication.”
In a sign of community unity, clergy representing the broad spectrum of Judaism have agreed to assist the Chevra in raising the funds, to appear in a series of campaign messages, and on the Chevra’s new website.
“We are proud of our Chevra Kadisha and the dignified manner in which it attends to the needs of our Community,” said participant Rabbi David Rogut, head Rabbi of Montefiore Home.
To find out more about the Sydney Chevra Kadisha’s appeal or to pledge your support, phone 9362 4820 or visit www.sck.org.au/building-project.
SHANE DESIATNIK
comments