Brit Milah/Naming

Jewish tradition directs us to perform a cirumcision on our sons on the eight day of their life and announce their Hebrew names.  While there is no requirement, daughters are often named in a ceremony in the home or during a Shabbat Service.

Rabbi Chuck will be happy to meet with you either before or after the birth of your child to discuss a ceremony that welcomes your child, honors your family and links you to the traditions of Judaism.

B'nai Mitzvah

In the Jewish community boys come of age at 13 years and girls at 12 years.  Literally translated, Bar Mitzvah means "son of the commandment" and Bat Mitzvah is "daughter of the commandment."

The event is commemorated through a service in which the child leads portions of the service, chants the weekly Torah and Haftarah portions and delivers a D'var Torah (a personal perspective of the Torah portion.)

Students receive their Hebrew and Religious education from the Family School or from a Day School, join the B'nai Mitvah Classes a year prior to their Bar/Bat Mitvah date and work individually with Rabbi Chuck.  Children are encouraged to work to their full potential, and to participate in the service in ways that highlight their individual skills and interests.

Wedding

Couples planning to formalize their relationship will meet privately with Rabbi Chuck to understand the importance of this commitment to each other and the spirituality of a Jewish Wedding.  Many couples arrange for an Auf Ruf prior to the event which takes place during a Shabbat Service.  The couple is honored with an aliyah to the Torah and blessed for a future of happiness by the Rabbi.

Funeral

Rabbi Chuck will be honored to officiate at the funeral of your loved one and work closely with area funeral homes to guide you to all necessary resources.  Following a funeral it is customary to sit Shiva (a seven day period of mourning) at which the Rabbi will be available to lead services and offer the family spiritual healing.