In many synagogues a member who is due to observe a Yahrzeit for a relative will be called to the reading of the Torah on the Shabbat preceding the Yahrzeit date and/or on the day of the Yahrzeit, if it is a day on which the Torah is read. Being called to the Torah and reciting the prescribed blessings is regarded as a Mitzvah - a meritorious act - and brings honour to the memory of the deceased relative.

In some synagogues, to mark the impending Yahrzeit, the Reader (Chazan) will recite the Memorial Prayer. You can read and hear the Memorial Prayer by clicking here. It is customary to donate a sum to charity upon being called to the Torah.