Life Cycle Events
Brit Milah (Circumcision)
The Torah commands us to circumcise our newborn sons on the eighth day of their new lives. This powerful ceremony celebrates new life and also brings our sons into Judaism’s sacred covenant. Rabbi Gwasdoff can put you in touch with a Mohel (ritual circumciser), help the parents understand the ceremony, and co-officiate, along with the Mohel. Rabbi Gwasdoff has often officiated at the brit while the actual circumcision is done by a pediatrician. We will be happy to work with you and your family to create a loving ceremony and a beautiful memory.
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Baby Naming
We celebrate the great blessing of a newborn child with a ceremony that brings them into the covenant, and confers upon them a Hebrew name. Rabbi Gwasdoff can help you think through and design this ceremony, which can take place either at home or at the synagogue.
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Bar/Bat Mitzvah
Bar/Bat Mitzvah students are moving from childhood to adulthood, from learning to be responsible to being responsible. As a son or daughter of the commandments, you commit yourself to proud membership in our ancient people. We also offer Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation for adults who were unable to celebrate this milestone in Jewish life as children. For more information about preparing for a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, contact our educator, Karma Fordis Lindner.
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Wedding
Rabbi Gwasdoff can help you prepare for this wonderful, joyous occasion by teaching the couple the meaning of the ceremony, from Ketubah (marriage document), to Kiddushin (Engagement) to Huppah (Marriage Canopy) to Nissuin (marriage ceremony) to breaking the glass. We also counsel you, offering Jewish wisdom in preparation for a life dedicated to love and companionship.
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Funeral
Our tradition offers several powerful end of life rituals – Kriah (tearing of a garment), Levayah (funeral procession), Hesped (eulogy), Kevurah (burial) and Shivah (seven days of mourning). Rabbi Gwasdoff is an excellent guide during this difficult time in the life of a family.
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Marking the Moments of Our Lives,
We can celebrate special moments and remember our loved ones by participating in Shabbat services. Lighting the Shabbat candles, donating the bimah flowers, hosting an Oneg Shabbat, or having the honor of being called to the Torah (aliyah) are wonderful ways to share joyous moments and times of memory with the community.
To participate in services please contact the office.