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Upcoming Events & Announcements
Make a New Year's resolution to make life easier in the event of your death. Select a cemetery plot of your choice with one simple phone call. Having your final resting place chosen is one way to make sure your family is cared for, even when you are gone.
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Cemetery Committee
Who We Are & What We Do
The Barnert Temple owns and maintains Mt. Nebo Cemetery, a serene and beautiful 22-acre site in Totowa, NJ. Our ownership of this cemetery dates back to the late eighteen hundreds.
The management and control of the cemetery is handled by the Cemetery Committee, with approval of the Board of Trustees.
If you would like more information about this committee or you are interested in working with us, please contact Mike or Debbie Becker at the email addresses listd above.
Click here to learn more about Mt. Nebo Cemetery. Downloadable materials on this beautiful site will be available soon.
Why Do We Place a Stone at a Gravesite?
By Genie Sasson
I have always wondered about the significance of placing a rock on a monument or footstone at the cemetery. For me, it says simply, “I’m here.” I have thought about what I learned in Torah Study, when God called to Abraham and Moses at the binding of Isaac and the burning bush; each responded with “Hineni,” which means, “Here I am, ready to act.” I feel there is a special connection to our departed when we let them know we are here and thinking about them.
Stones symbolize strength, courage, fortitude and endurance. Placing one at the grave reminds us that love and memory are as strong as rock and never die.
 Leaving a stone is also like leaving a message for the next visitor: you’re not alone in remembering; others have been here, too.
One of the many names for God is “The Rock of Israel.” Our presence at the gravesite might be a way to connect to God. Though we may feel weak or diminished by our loss, God’s strength bears us up.
Long ago, loved ones were buried in shallower graves, with stones on top to protect them from the elements. Over time, harsh weather would wear down those stones; when people returned and replaced those stones, they reinforced the permanence of the gravesite. Honoring our loved ones continues through this gentle, physical act, perhaps even helping us survivors, spiritually.
At Barnert, we are grateful for our Community and the opportunities to be there for one another in times of need. As the late Tim Russert said, “The best exercise for the human heart is kneeling down and helping someone up.” The members of our committee are here for you. Perhaps you’d like to join us. If so, please contact our chairperson. |
