We are commanded to say Kaddish on the occasion of and at the anniversary of the death of our parents, spouses, siblings, and children. Most rabbinical interpretations view the commandment as applying minimally to this set of people, not a limitation on saying the prayer for others. A Yahrzeit plaque is a visible reminder of the anniversary date of a person’s death, that is placed in or near the sanctuary and illuminated during the anniversary week.

What are the benefits of purchasing a plaque?

• A 2”x 4” glass plaque engraved with the person’s name, birth date, and death date is placed in the frame in the sanctuary.
• It will be illuminated for a week each year starting with the anniversary date.
• It will be illuminated for the first 11 months after the date of death.
• For as long as you are a member of EC, if you are not present at the Friday night Shabbat service of the anniversary week, someone will say Kaddish for your loved one in your place.
• Your memorial contribution supports Congregation Eitz Chayim.

How do I buy one?

Send the person’s name, birth date, and death date to the EC office along with a check or Paypal transfer for $250. You may choose to use either the Hebrew or the Gregorian calendar. If you chose the Hebrew calendar, please remember that the new day begins at sundown, and deaths that occurred after sundown should be dated accordingly. Allow four weeks for engraving and mounting.

Formatting details

The plaques are 2” x 4”, engraved on the back side. There is a border of 3/8” on all sides. The name is engraved in 24 point Garamond bold. If the name does not fit on a single line, it is given two lines. If it does not fit on two lines, then the font size is reduced until it fits. The dates are engraved in 16 point Garamond bold. If they do not fit on a single line, then month names are abbreviated (e.g. “Jan” instead of “January”). Hebrew month names are spelled with the Roman alphabet.

Questions?