Eloheinu v'elohei avotainu v'imotainu
Our God, and the God of our ancestors, accept our prayer. We turn to You, acknowledging that life and death are in your hands. If it is Your decree that _______ be taken by death, may it be in peace and love.

We know that in life he left many deeds undone. He, like all of us, led an imperfect life. We pray for you to forgive those failings. May he be protected by the righteous deeds that are his legacy. May those deeds live on. Guardian of the helpless, Source of compassion, protect and comfort his family and friends. Their souls remain tied to him with limitless bonds.

May _______ be granted an eternal existence in your presence. Into Your hands he/she commits his/her soul.

(Silent meditation or time for those gathered to express their- personal farewells, or give voice to unfinished concerns.)

Sh'ma Yisrael Adonai Eloheinu, Adonai Echad.
Hear O Israel, The lord is our God, the Lord Alone.
Baruch Shem kevod malchuto 1'olam va'ed.
Praised be His glorious sovereignty throughout all time.
Adonai Hu Ha-elohim, Adonai Hu Ha-elohim
The Lord is God, The Lord is God.

(After the moment of death.)

Adonai natan v'Adonai lakach, y'hi shem Adonai m'vorach.
The Lord gave to us, and now the Lord has taken away,
despite our grief, may we still praise the name of the Lord.
Baruch dayan ha'emet.
Praised be the ultimate Judge of all truth.

Ronald S. Roth
Rabbi, West End Synagogue