Questions About Paying a Sympathy Visit

My principal's mom passed away, and I'll be visiting the family at the home where they are sitting Shiva. I'm not Jewish, so I'm unsure of what to do.

Do I bring anything?

And do I dress like I would for a funeral??

Thanks girls.

You usually bring some type of food to a Shiva call......just make sure no milk and meat on the same plate. Maybe cookies, or a cold cut platter (without cheese), etc...Jews are not supposed to cook or anything during Shiva, so people bring food to feed the family...

As for dress, no, it is much less formal than a funeral. I don't wear jeans to shiva calls, but slacks and a casual blouse are fine.

Thanks Marni.

a nice cookie tray is nice to bring.

Marnles said it best.

I usually go to a Kosher bakery...you never know if a family member keeps Kosher...

its really more just to sit with the grieving and comfort them. they may be sitting on a box (lower to the ground than everyone else)