Ephraim Finch, a prominent figure in Melbourne’s Jewish community, dedicated over three decades to guiding countless individuals towards their final resting places. As director of the Chevra Kadisha, or Jewish Burial Society, Finch oversaw the burial of more than 10,000 individuals from the mid-1980s until his retirement in 2015. His profound impact on the community is the subject of a new book, *The Ferryman: The Life and Deathwork of Ephraim Finch*, authored by Katia Ariel.
Ariel, whose work has garnered recognition such as a nomination for the Stella Prize, expresses a sense of “pre-emptive regret” for not being able to include personal details of each life Finch touched. Finch, originally known as Geoffrey Finch, is depicted as a beloved community figure with a “broad Aussie accent” who became a significant part of Jewish life in Melbourne. Author Arnold Zable describes Finch as a “community ferryman” in the book’s foreword, reflecting the deep respect and admiration he commands.
Conversion and Commitment to Community
Finch’s journey into Judaism began when he and his wife, Cas, converted during his twenties. This transformation was sparked by Cas discovering Herman Wouk‘s *This is My God*, which resonated with their belief in the warmth and depth of Jewish traditions. Over his years of service, Finch became known for his meticulous record-keeping, chronicling the lives of those he buried, many of whom were Holocaust survivors. Ariel notes the importance of listening and asking questions, emphasizing Finch’s dedication to understanding the stories behind each soul.
Ariel’s narrative bridges personal accounts through her deep conversations with Finch and interviews with bereaved family members. She delves into Finch’s practices, such as distributing copies of Maurice Lamm‘s *The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning* to families he assisted. Adhering to Jewish law, burials are typically conducted within 24 hours of death, making Finch’s role crucial in providing comfort and guidance during a difficult time.
A Tribute to Lives and Stories
The book’s structure intertwines Finch’s life story with the tales of those he has buried. Ariel’s extensive research, including journal entries, photographs, and transcripts, provides a comprehensive view of Finch’s work and its significance. She describes her experiences accompanying him to visits at the Springvale Jewish Cemetery, where Finch continues to honor the memories of those he has laid to rest.
A poignant moment occurs when Finch recalls the funeral of his longtime friend, Max Dzienciol, whose son tragically died at a young age. Dzienciol remembers Finch’s presence during the funeral and his comforting support in the aftermath. Ariel captures the essence of Finch’s character, portraying him as someone who holds space for mourners without drawing attention to himself.
Ariel reflects on her own beliefs, identifying as a secular humanist, yet expressing gratitude for the structure provided by ancient traditions during life’s most significant moments. The connection between Finch’s work and the narratives of the deceased reveals a tapestry of shared experiences, underscoring the importance of community and memory.
As she explores Finch’s life, Ariel crafts a lyrical tribute that resonates with readers. She invites them to consider their own experiences with grief and loss, while also acknowledging the broader implications of Finch’s compassionate work. The narrative offers a profound meditation on the relationship between the living and the dead, suggesting that stories, whether told or untold, shape our understanding of life itself.
In *The Ferryman*, Ariel’s storytelling weaves together the sacred and the personal, ultimately revealing Finch as a figure who embodies a deep faith in humanity and the connections that bind us all. Through his life’s work, he not only ferries souls to their resting places but also offers solace and companionship to those left behind, proving that even in death, there is profound meaning to be found.
