Chevra Kadisha Concludes Traditional Fast with Seudah

On 15 Kislev, Lubavitch Chevra Kadishas around the world, hold a fast day to atone for any wrong done to the previous year’s niftarim. They recite selichos, read Vayechal, and visit the cemetery to ask mechila from the dead. When the day is out, they hold a unique Seudas Mitzvah. Photos from Moscow.

There is an ancient Jewish tradition that members of the Chevra Kadisha, who are engaged in the sacred work of chessed shel emes throughout the year, designate one specific day annually to gather in prayer, recite slichos, and observe a fast. On this day, they seek forgiveness on behalf of all those who have passed during the year, ensuring that if there were any unintentional lapses in dignity or respect, their transgressions be absolved.

Many years ago, the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, revived this time-honored custom, affirming the 15th of Kislev as the designated date—following the practice established in the era of the Alter Rebbe, who personally served as a member of the Chevra Kadisha and would fast on this very day. One reason the 15th of Kislev was chosen is because it is among the year’s shortest days and, like the 7th of Adar, it never coincides with Shabbos.

Following their annual visit to the cemetery—where they humbly asked forgiveness from the departed—the Chevra Kadisha members gathered at the Marina Roscha Shul for Mincha, reciting Vayichal as part of their slichos. After Maariv, they partook in the traditional Seudas Mitzva, expressing sincere gratitude to the dedicated volunteers who devote themselves to this holy work. During the gathering, the group focused on strategies for continued improvement, guided by words of inspiration delivered by Mr. Dovid Bloch, the Jewish cemetery’s director, and Rabbi Dovid Karpov of the Darkey Shalom synagogue.

The event concluded with Rabbi Moshe Tamarin, spiritual leader of Malakhovka and caretaker of its historic Jewish cemetery, reciting Birkas Hamazon, bringing the evening of reflection, renewal, and dedication to a meaningful close.

Photography: Mevaser Tov Moscow