The birth of a baby is truly a miracle! Mazel Tov! Welcoming your baby into our BHBE community is one of our greatest privileges and joys. We look forward to celebrating with you.
B’rit milah (literally, “covenant of circumcision”) also called a bris, refers to the religious ritual through which male babies are formally welcomed into the Jewish people. In accordance with Jewish law and tradition, the B’rit Milah is performed on the eighth day of life by a mohel who is specially trained in the medical and religious requirements of the ritual. Receiving a Hebrew name is also part of the B’rit Milah.
Ceremonies that celebrate the birth of a daughter and her entry into the covenant of the Jewish people are known by a variety of names, including b’rit bat and b’rit chayim. A baby girl may receive her Hebrew name at the conclusion of an aliyah anytime the Torah is read. If desired, the naming of a newborn daughter or granddaughter may be arranged for a Shabbat morning.
Our Rabbi or Cantor will be happy to help you in any way, from selecting a Hebrew name to arranging a B’rit Milah to assisting in supplemental naming ceremonies at home. Please feel free to contact them by phone or email or by calling the synagogue office at 847-256-1213.
