Life Cycles
Birth Rituals
What is a baby naming?
Jewish babies are given Hebrew names shortly after they are born. Usually, a brief ceremony is performed, which often includes family members of the new baby.
Religious Education
What is a Confirmation?
Confirmation is a Reform-originated ceremony for boys and girls that is tied to the Jewish holiday of Shavuot.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah
What is Bar/Bat Mitzvah?
Bar Mitzvah means son of the commandments and Bat Mitzvah means daughter of the commandments. A Bar/Bat mitzvah is meant to signify the beginning of an adult’s journey in the Jewish religion. Faith and dedication are intended to grow stronger after this milestone which is something to be celebrated with family and friends.
Weddings
Congratulations
Learn about the rituals that are often practiced on the day of a Jewish wedding: fasting, badeken di kallah, the wedding ceremony, sheva b’rachot, breaking the glass, and yichud.
Conversion
Choosing Judaism?
There are many reasons a person might consider conversion to Judaism. Men and women who are seeking sacred meaning in their lives may find that Judaism speaks to their need for spiritual connection and community.
Death and Mourning
A Jewish Funeral
The death of a loved one is so often a painful and confusing time for members of the family and dear friends. This guide will assist you in planning the funeral as well as offer helpful information on the centuries-old Jewish burial practices.