What is the Book of Remembrance?
The Book of Remembrance is a compilation of names of Kol Ami members who are no longer with us and who are being remembered by members of our community.
 
Why is a Book of Remembrance important?
In keeping with our Jewish tradition for remembering our loved ones at this time of year, we publish a Book of Remembrance for our Yom Kippur afternoon Yizkor Service. It enables us to pay tribute to our loved ones who are no longer with us.

 

What is Yizkor?

Yizkor is recited on the first holiday after a loved one passes and during four holidays throughout the year. These holiday services include:
Yom Kippur
8th day of Passover
8th day of Sukkot
2nd day of Shavuot
Originally, Yizkor was only recited on Yom Kippur. However, since the Torah reading that is done on the last day of the pilgrimage festivals – Passover, Sukkot, and Shavuot – focuses on the importance of charitable donations, which is integral to this memorial service, Yizkor has since been added to these three-holiday services. While Yizkor is typically said at a synagogue during the four different services mentioned above, it can be said privately within a home or sanctuary as well.

 
Do I light a memorial candle when Yizkor is recited?
A memorial candle should be lit the night before Yizkor, typically at sundown. It will burn through the entire service (as long as 26 hours) to show the time of mourning. Once the candle burns out, the deceased has been sufficiently mourned until the next of the four holidays.
 
Has Kol Ami had a Book of Remembrance for a long time?
Kol Ami has produced an annual Book of Remembrance that is distributed during the Yizkor service on the afternoon of Yom Kippur. This year it will be virtual and will remain on our website throughout the year.
 
Is it customary to give tzedakah (a donation) in memory of a loved one during this time?
Yes, in keeping with the origins of Yizkor, it is appropriate to make a tzedakah contribution to honor those who you are remembering.
 
Can I say Yizkor privately?
Yes, there is no technical requirement for a minyan (quorum of 10 Jews necessary for communal prayer).
 
How can I ensure that my loved ones are included in this year’s Book of Remembrance?
Having your loved one’s name included is easy.  All you need to do is click “submit names of loved ones” and complete the form.
 
How can I find the names of my loved ones already listed?
Type your family name in the search box or click on the “Names by Category” on the home page.