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Yizkor – In Loving Memory

Yizkor Memorial Service

Each of us carries the memory of someone we’ve lost — a parent, a grandparent, a friend, a soul who left a mark on our lives. In their honor, we invite you to take part in a deeply meaningful mitzvah. With your Yizkor dedication, your loved one’s name will be placed near the Sefer Torah and lovingly remembered during the Yizkor prayers recited on the Jewish holidays — a sacred moment that binds their memory to the heart of our people. In Jewish tradition, memory is not just about the past — it lives on through us. The ones we remember continue to guide us, in our words, our deeds, and in the kindness we do in their merit. Your donation is more than a tribute — it is a quiet act of continuity, a light for the soul, and a blessing for an entire community that carries their memory forward.

 

What Is Yizkor

Yizkor, meaning “May G-d remember,” is a sacred Jewish memorial prayer. It is recited four times a year—on Yom Kippur, Shemini Atzeret, the last day of Passover, and the second day of Shavuot. This prayer offers a meaningful way to honor and remember those we have lost.

Yizkor is more than tradition. It is a moment to reflect, give, and connect. Through prayer and charity, we elevate the souls of our loved ones and keep their memory alive.

Why We Say Yizkor

In Jewish life, remembering a loved one is both an expression of love and an ongoing responsibility. Giving tzedakah (charity) in a person’s memory is a mitzvah known as “li’ilui nishmat,” to elevate their soul. This simple act brings spiritual merit and continues their legacy.

The roots of Yizkor go back to early rabbinic tradition. The Midrash Tanchuma mentions the custom of pledging charity for the deceased on Yom Kippur. Over time, this act became part of the Yizkor prayer we say today.

How Yizkor Works

Yizkor is traditionally recited in synagogue after the Torah reading. Each person privately says a paragraph for their departed loved ones. During this time, it is customary to pledge tzedakah as part of the prayer.

If you are not able to attend a synagogue, we will gladly say Yizkor on your behalf here in Chabad Moldova. Your loved one’s name will be placed near the Sefer Torah and mentioned during Yizkor with honor and care.

How to Participate

You can take part by filling out the Yizkor form on this page.

  • The minimum donation is $18 per dedication

  • You may submit more than one name

  • For each name, you can include:

    • Full name (English or Hebrew)

    • Parent’s name (optional)

    • Your relationship to them

    • Yahrtzeit date

    • Place of burial or birth

    • A short message or dedication (optional)

Each name will be remembered individually during the Yizkor prayer.

Why Through Chabad Moldova

Chabad Moldova has been serving the Jewish community since 1990. In a place where Jewish life was once nearly lost, we have rebuilt with warmth and purpose.

By submitting your Yizkor dedication through us, you are not only remembering someone dear to you. You are also strengthening Jewish life in a region that depends on support. Your donation helps us provide Jewish education, holiday programs, senior outreach, and daily services to hundreds of people.

Let Their Memory Be a Blessing

Yizkor is more than remembrance. It is a sacred opportunity to turn memory into action. To honor those we love. To give tzedakah in their merit. And to build a better future in their name.

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