The Hevrah Kadisha is the name given to the congregational committee or organization whose purpose it is to perform the mitzvah of preparing the deceased for burial in accordance with Jewish tradition.
The Hevrah Kadisha shall be a standing committee of the congregation functioning under the guidance of and with the cooperation of the Rabbi and Hazan. In some congregations, the Hevrah Kadisha is a separate corporation though legally associated with the congregation.
The duties of the Hevrah Kadisha are among the most important mitzvot incumbent upon us. Membership should be regarded as a distinct honor carrying with it the appreciation and respect of the entire congregation. Members of the Hevrah Kadisha include men and women who serve and perform their duties willingly and piously.