Life Cycle
As a close-knit community, we are especially grateful to support one another through all stages of life - whether it is sharing a joyous celebration or providing comfort in a moment of solace. Saturday morning services may include celebration of a baby naming, Bat or Bar Mitzvah, or Auf Ruf. We welcome interfaith families to participate in all life cycle events. We also welcome unaffiliated members of the larger community to contact us to arrange for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah in our community.
Brit Milah (Bris) And Simchat Bat (Naming)
We love babies! At B’nai Shalom, we cherish the opportunity to welcome newborns into our community, and invite you to celebrate their naming in our Sanctuary. Brit milah and simchat bat are joyous occasions to introduce your new member of the Jewish community to friends and family. Mazel tov!
Bar/Bat Mitzvah
The joyous day marks the beginning of your child's participation as a responsible member of the Jewish community. B’nai Shalom fully supports each Bat or Bar Mitzvah. The day is not shared. It is uniquely your child's day, and we are sensitive to the capability of each and every child. Our school's high preparation standards and personal attention result in confident students who shine proudly. Our entire B’nai Shalom community rejoices with you, your family, and guests.
Adoption
Some families adopt a child of non-Jewish birth. Rabbi Tobin will gladly meet with you to discuss your family's plan and to help you arrange an infant or young-child conversion to formalize your dedication to raising your child as a member of the Jewish people.
Auf Ruf
An Auf Ruf (calling up) is a communal acknowledgement of your forthcoming wedding. The chatan (groom-to-be) and kallah (bride-to-be) are called to the Torah for an aliyah under our congregational chuppah. Rabbi Tobin will offer reflections and a blessing, and the congregation will shower you with candies symbolizing the sweetness of your union.
Weddings
As a bride and groom pledge “Ani l’dodi, v’dodi li” (I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine), their declaration to family and community marks the start of a new life of love and commitment. Rabbi Tobin welcomes the opportunity to help provide guidance and counseling and officiate at your wedding.
Death & Mourning
Judaism teaches reverence for life and respect for our loved ones after death. Loss of a loved one is very hard, and the B’nai Shalom community extends every effort to ensure that you will be supported and not alone. Rabbi Tobin's guidance for families in mourning, and his participation in funerals and the unveilings that are scheduled a year later, is one of the most sacred and important of his rabbinic and pastoral commitments. The shiva schedule is shared with the congregation, so that a minyan gathered in your home can offer the comfort of a caring community.
Yahrzeit Converter
The anniversary of the death of a close loved one is commemorated by lighting a yahrzeit candle and coming to synagogue to recite Kaddish. B’nai Shalom will send you a notice of the date of the yahrzeits you observe.