Perpetual Yahrtzeit

At the Jewish Association on Aging we understand the importance, both spiritual and emotional, of making sure your loved one’s memory is kept alive in accordance with Jewish tradition. Our sages teach us that giving charity in memory of one who has passed on enables an elevation of his/her soul.

Your initial contribution of $360 to establish a Perpetual Yahrtzeit Memorial will help us to provide the support needed for older adults to enjoy their lives in comfort and with dignity. When one gives Tzedaka in someone’s memory, it is viewed as a tribute to his or her life and the Jewish values he or she sought to preserve.

At the JAA we have a long tradition of reciting memorial prayers on behalf of Jews who have no surviving relatives or whose relatives are not able to say Kaddish. The JAA’s Director of Pastoral care, Rabbi Eli Seidman, recites the Kaddish on Saturdays during services.  Often our residents, many of whom are members of Pittsburgh’s Jewish community, were acquainted with the people whose memories they honor.

As part of our Yahrtzeit Memorial program we will:

• Mail you a notice to remind you of the upcoming Yahrtzeit
• Say Kaddish each Saturday for your loved one during the first year after the burial, and on the Saturday nearest the Yahrtzeit date each year thereafter
• Create a “Virtual Plaque” for your loved one in our Yahrtzeit system, viewable at a touch screen computer in our Heritage Hallway at the JAA
• Publish your loved one’s name in The Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle during the week of his/her Yahrtzeit
• Provide notification to family members who request yearly notification of the Yahrtzeit
• Send out a beautiful card to whomever you choose, that acknowledges your gift to the JAA in memory of your loved one.

Please donate online (remember to specify Perpetual Yahrtzeit) to establish this tribute to your loved one.

You may also call Beverly Brinn, Director of Development at 412-521-1975 or email donations@jaapgh.org for more information.