The family is gathered at dusk, on the evening before the anniversary of the death.
A GROUP MIGHT SAY:
At this moment, in memory of our beloved ………., we join hands in love and remembrance. A link has been broken in the chain that has bound us together, yet strong bonds of home and love hold us each to the other.
We give thanks for the blessing of life, of companionship, and of memory. We are grateful for the strength and faith that sustained us in the hour of our bereavement. Though sorrow lingers, we have learned that love is stronger than death. Though our loved one is beyond our sight, we do not despair, for we sense our beloved in our hearts as a living presence.
AN INDIVIDUAL MIGHT SAY:
At this moment, I pause for thought in memory of my beloved ………., I give thanks for the blessing of life, of companionship, and of memory. I am grateful for the strength and faith that sustained me in the hour of my bereavement. Though sorrow lingers, I have learned that love is stronger than death. Though my loved one is beyond my sight, I do not despair, for I sense my beloved in my hearth as a living presence.
The 23rd Psalm or another favorite passage from the Bible or Prayerbook might now be recited.
Sustained by words of faith, comforted by precious memories we (I) kindle the Yahrzeit light in remembrance. As this light burns pure and clear, so may the blessed memory of goodness of our (my) dear ………. illumine our souls (my soul).
The light is kindled
FOR A MALE:
זִכְרוֹנוֹ לִבְרָכָה
Zich-ro-no li-v’ra-cha
May his memory always be a blessing.
FOR A FEMALE:
זִכְרוֹנָה לִבְרָכָה
Zich-ro-nah li-v’ra-cha
May her memory always be a blessing.
