THE CEREMONY

A bris should be inclusive and participatory. The ceremony can be customized to meet the family’s needs, and typically includes these elements:

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1. Candle lighting, with an optional English reading.

 - One or more honorees
 

2. The baby is brought into the room.

 - One or more honorees, called “kvater.”
 

3. Brief comments on the meaning of the ceremony.

 - Mohel
 

4. The Chair of Elijah. During this special bris tradition, we invoke the memory of Elijah the Prophet and give expression to our people’s yearning for the world to be a place of blessing, peace, and tolerance.

 - One or more honorees
 

5. The ritual of circumcision is performed quickly.

 - Done by the mohel, assisted by the “sandek”who sits opposite.
 

6. The baby is named through the recitation of Hebrew and English prayers.

 - Done by the mohel.  A “sandek” holds the baby while standing.

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7. Parents, grandparents or other family members and friends may offer reflections.

 

8. The celebratory meal (“Seudat Mitzvah”).