It really depends on their sect, but I wouldn't worry about it too much. If they're Orthodox, you should have a long skirt and long sleeves on. It would be nice to bring something for the family to eat, but if you do that, make sure of whether or not they keep kosher. It's pretty easy to find a box of cookies or something with the official kosher stamp. (A good suggestion is always Entenmann's cookies!) Definitely wash your hands with the pitcher. One of the posts said something about conversation kept to a minimum- I've never experienced that in the large amount of shivas I've been to in my life. I can't really vouch for the Orthodox; I haven't really been to many of Orthodox shivas. For the most part, I think they'll just be touched that you came by to pay your respects, so don't worry too much about protocol. Oh, and if you bring your husband, and your sure they're religious, he should have his head covered. |