Schedule an Unveiling
Memorial Unveiling Ceremonies
What is an Unveiling?
Many families choose to dedicate their memorial tablet during an unveiling ceremony, a meaningful tradition that typically takes place the year after a loved one’s passing. This gathering allows family and friends to come together in reflection, prayer, and remembrance as the matzevah is revealed.
The yahrzeit, observed annually on the anniversary of a loved one’s passing, offers another opportunity to honor their memory. Lighting a yahrzeit candle, reciting the Kaddish, and visiting the gravesite are time-honored customs that help keep their legacy alive in the hearts of those who loved them.
The Purpose of the Unveiling Ceremony
A year or so has passed since the death. The shock has worn off. The pain of loss is still very real, but it has changed. We have begun to learn to live without the regular presence of our loved one. The unveiling ceremony gathers us together at the gravesite to recall what is immortal and lasting in this life. -Rabbi Edward Feinstein
Honoring Memory Through Tradition
This ceremony represents our conviction that the life of a person does not evaporate when the body dies. Some significant part of the person lives on among family, friends and community.
How Do I Schedule an Unveiling?
Unveilings are typically scheduled around the first anniversary of your loved one’s passing. To begin, please reach out to your dedicated Advisor to discuss the creation of your loved one’s memorial tablet. While your Advisor will follow up with you approximately three months after the passing, you’re welcome to begin the process sooner if and when you feel ready.
We understand that starting the design process just three—or even six—months after a loss can feel overwhelming. That said, the creation, approval, and crafting of a memorial tablet can take several months to complete. To ensure we can accommodate your preferred unveiling date, the tablet must be completed before scheduling. This helps prevent any last-minute stress for you or your family should there be unexpected delays.
Ceremony Planning
We guide you through every detail of your unveiling ceremony with sensitivity and care.
Memorial Design
Custom memorial tablets crafted with the finest materials and attention to detail.
Family Support
Ongoing guidance and support throughout the memorial process, whenever you need us most.
Planning Your Unveiling: What to Expect
- Planning: Begin tablet design with your dedicated Advisor 3–6 months before the unveiling ceremony. If you’re unsure who your Advisor is, please call (323) 769-1330 to get connected.
- Finalize Tablet: Most families aim to complete the tablet at least 4–6 weeks before the ceremony.
- Scheduling: Once the tablet is completed and approved for placement, contact Mount Sinai’s Unveiling Department to discuss available dates and times. Please note all unveilings are scheduled on the half hour from 9:30 am – 2:30 pm, and must be scheduled in advance through Mount Sinai. Time availability is limited due to scheduling of other funeral services and offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Ceremony Length: Most unveiling ceremonies last 15-30 minutes, including time for family memories, prayers, and the formal unveiling.
- Weather Protection: We can offer Mount Sinai umbrellas for ceremonies to provide shade and comfort for your guests during warmer months or inclement weather.
- What We Provide: We provide up to 18 chairs for guests, ceremony coordination assistance, chapel prayer books, kippot, and stones from Jerusalem. We handle all details with care and respect.
Questions About Scheduling?
Our compassionate team will guide you through every step of creating a meaningful ceremony that honors your loved one’s memory.
Phone: (323) 769-1361
Email: unveilings@mountsinaiparks.org