Life Cycle Ceremonies

Our Shir Tikvah Rabbis perform the following ceremonies:
  • Weddings: The Rabbi officiates at weddings for any member when the couple is committed to the exclusive practice of Judaism in the home.
  • Brit Services (Covenant of Life for newborns): The birth or adoption of both boys and girls is celebrated with a Brit Chayim - a naming ceremony - that is usually performed at the synagogue. For boys, the Brit Milah, covenant of circumcision, is usually performed in the home by a mohel and the Rabbi.
  • Bar/Bat Mitzvah for Children: We celebrate Bar/Bat Mitzvah for all thirteen year old students of our Religious and Hebrew schools. The specific and general requirements are available to you here.
  • Bar/Bat Mitzvah for Adults: Shir Tikvah loves to celebrate congregants who choose to observe a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. We offer a one-year Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah class that has one year of Hebrew and general Jewish studies as a prerequisite.
  • Conversions: The Rabbi works closely with congregants who are considering, or are in the process of, conversion. He meets with the congregants several times, helps establish a study plan, and performs the conversion service.
  • Special Occasions: The Rabbi offers blessings at Shabbat services for special occasions and milestones. Let him know if you wish to receive such a blessing.
  • Funerals and Shiva Services: The Rabbi conducts funeral and shiva services for members and immediate relatives. A rabbi is always on call when Rabbi Latz is out of town.
  • Divorce/Get Rituals: Please speak with the Rabbi if you wish to discuss a ritual Get following a divorce.
 

Shiva Services

Shiva is part of the Jewish grieving ritual.  It is a time for friends and family to make a condolence call (usually at the home of the mourners) so that those who are grieving can reflect on the death of their loved one and receive comfort and support from their community.  A prayer service is usually held for the family and all who have come. 

The word "shiva" is Hebrew for "seven" and refers to the seven days that the grieving family traditionally observed this mourning period although it is now commonly observed only one or two days. 

Our Caring Community includes shiva volunteers who help support families in mourning by serving as “hosts” at the shiva.  This allows the family to focus on receiving condolences and comfort from visitors.

If you are interested in being part of the Caring Community's team of shiva volunteers, please contact us for details.

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