Rituals That Hold Us, Rituals We Hold - Annual Day of Learning

Join us Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at Sinai Memorial in San Francisco for a thoughtful and nourishing Annual Day of Learning.

This in‑person gathering brings together experienced teachers, clergy, and caregivers to explore Jewish rituals that support us through end‑of‑life, death, mourning, and remembrance. Through a mix of workshops, teachings, and conversation, we’ll examine rituals that help us show up for ourselves and others during life’s most tender transitions.

Whether you are grieving, supporting someone who is, working in care or clergy, or simply curious about Jewish wisdom around loss and meaning, this day is designed to meet you where you are. Expect an atmosphere that is grounded, compassionate, and welcoming—one that invites reflection, learning, and connection.

This event is free to attend, and lunch will be provided with registration.

We look forward to learning together in community.

Info: While the program begins at 10am, the doors will be open at 9:30am for Breakfast Bites & Informal Gathering

Info: Workshop #1: Grave Measuring & Soul Candles with alix lutnick, End of Life Doula
Workshop #2: Expressive Arts as Ritual with Jennifer Kaufman, Artist
Workshop #3: Ethical Wills: Leaving What Matters Most with Holly Blue Hawkins, Natural Deathcare Advocate
Workshop #4: Shiva: Text, Practice, and Holding Community with Rabbi Dan Goldblatt & Zoë Francesca Goldblatt, End of Life Doula

Info: Nourishing, unstructured community time

Info: This panel brings together clergy from different Jewish movements and life experiences to reflect on how ritual holds individuals and communities through end‑of‑life, death, and grief. Drawing from Renewal, Reform, and other pluralistic Jewish traditions, each panelist offers a distinct lens on how ritual practice responds to loss, creates meaning, and sustains communal care.
Through conversation and shared wisdom, the panel will explore questions of tradition and innovation, pastoral presence, and how Jewish ritual continues to evolve to meet the spiritual and emotional needs of our time. This session invites attendees to hear multiple voices in dialogue—modeling the diversity of Jewish approaches to grief, mourning, and sacred responsibility.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Sinai Memorial