The Jewish tradition provides moving rituals for each stage of our lives, from birth through adolescence, marriage, to death. Congregation B’nai Israel provides resources and facilities for all Jewish life cycle events, including brit milah, baby naming, b’nai mitzvah, funerals, weddings, and funerals and shiva. Our clergy, professional staff, lay leadership and community can provide you with the support, information and resources you need to mark any important life occasion.
As you prepare to welcome a new child into your family, whether through birth or adoption, we want to help you welcome them into the Jewish community. Our rituals for welcoming a child into the Jewish community by entering him or her into the Covenant (“berit” in Hebrew) can be especially beautiful and meaningful. At Congregation B’nai Israel, we wholeheartedly subscribe to the principle of gender equality, which is one of the ideological pillars of modern Reform Judaism. We celebrate the birth or adoption of daughters as joyously as we do that of our sons, and our joy is reflected in our Berit ceremonies. Click here to learn more.
Bet Mitzvah is a Jewish rite of passage – a way to mark our children’s formal recognition as young adults in the Jewish community. Congregation B’nai Israel comes together to honor our students as they reach this milestone on the road to maturity. The words Bet Mitzvah mean “one who is responsible for religious obligations (mitzvot).” Hence, Jewish adulthood is attained by accepting the responsibilities and obligations of living as a Jew. We know that preparing for Bet Mitzvah can be an intense and emotional time for families, but the support of our clergy and community makes the process much less stressful. We will help your family plan and share the process of participating in one of Judaism’s greatest mitzvot, that of leading the Congregation in prayer and being called to read from Torah. Click here to learn more.
Confirmation is a Jewish ceremony generally unique to Reform synagogues. It is a celebration on the road to high school graduation and a highlight of Reform Jewish education. The 10th grade year, which leads to Confirmation, is integrated with Merkaz, the community’s Hebrew high school, and includes numerous learning and study opportunities with Rabbis Schultz, Rabbi Marion, and Education Director Alexa Cohen. Click here to learn more.
B’nai Israel clergy enjoy working with engaged couples to create a joyous and personally meaningful Jewish celebration of marriage. Our Rabbis and Cantor provide premarital counseling to couples, taking the time to get to know them and understand their concerns. Same-sex couples are always welcome. Click here to learn more.
It is precisely at times of loss and emptiness that we depend on our Jewish tradition, our religious faith and our community to help us get through. The synagogue and clergy are always here to comfort and support you in these difficult times. Click here for answers to some of your practical and traditional questions concerning a Jewish funeral.