“I WANT SOMETHING SPIRITUAL BUT NOT RELIGIOUS!”…So often, this is what I hear from couples, as I interview them for their wedding. While I come from a Jewish tradition, as Jewish clergy, I am also “outside the box” in terms of my approach to officiating at both weddings and funerals.

What I have noticed with many people I meet is that they tend to describe themselves as “spiritual but not religious”. This is where Sheila Pearl can be helpful and ultimately, of service.

Each wedding ceremony in which I participate is customized to the couple and their aestheic and spiritual needs. Because I am Jewish and have a deep love and appreciation for Jewish traditions, I enjoy integrating those when desired by the couples I serve. However, it need not be so.

When you are planning your wedding, call me. I will be happy to give you a complimentary consultation. We can determine whether or not I am for you. We will talk about everything from concept to fees. I don’t talk money online nor will I talk money until we determine if it is a match for us. Then…I listen to what your budget is. I let you know what my fee normally would be. If I have to travel, that another factor. If you need pre-marital counselling, that is factored in. In the very least, you will have our initial consultation, which is complimentary, plus three additional consultations before the wedding. I try to make myself available for the “rehearsal dinner” as well, since this is a wonderful opportunity for me to integrate with the wedding party, family and friends.

NOW…about FUNERALS AND MEMORIAL SERVICES:

Just as my approach to officiating at weddings, I consider my work to include “Spiritual Passages”–offering creative, meaningful, and spiritual funeral and memorial services to families who are either nor affiliated with any church or synagogue, or who simply want something that is not typical of most churches or synagogues. Every ceremony and services is totally customized to the needs of each individual family. I listen carefully to the various members of the family and/or friends, integrating into my own comments the reflections I hear. I see my job as one of “facilitator” and “weaver” in such ceremonies. I facilitate healing and clarity at a time when it is difficult to navigate emotions with clarity. I weave the various components of what each family decides they want in their ceremony, whether it be a combination of liturgy, readings and/or various speakers to reflect on the deceased person’s life and impact on their world.