BIRTH
We are delighted to welcome new babies into our community and share in this special occasion! Each family and celebration is unique and there are often creative ways to involve and honor relatives and friends, regardless of whether or not they are Jewish. Please contact any of our clergy as you start to think about ways to welcome a new child into the covenant of the Jewish people and our community.
Brit Milah (Covenant of Circumcision)
Brit milah comes from the covenant that was made between God and Abraham in the Torah, and the circumcision is a sign of that continuing relationship between God and the Jewish people. It takes place on the eighth day after a boy is born, even if it falls on Shabbat.
As part of the ceremony, the baby is given a Hebrew name. The day the baby is born is counted as the first day unless the birth happens after sundown. In some instances, the circumcision may be delayed for medical reasons. The ceremony usually takes place at home, but is sometimes held at The Temple or other locations.
The ritual circumcision is performed by a mohel (male) or mohelet (female). If you would like the names of mohelim, please contact Dianne Ratowsky at 404-873-1731. The Temple clergy are available to participate in the ceremony, or the mohel/et may perform the entire ceremony.
Baby Naming
The giving of a Hebrew name to a baby girl may take place at any time. Some choose to hold it on the eighth day after birth, just like scheduling a brit milah, and others choose to wait until the baby is older.
The naming ceremony may take place during Shabbat services, thus providing the opportunity to share this joyous occasion with the community, or it may be held at a private home or another location. The arrangements must be made in advance by contacting Dianne Ratowsky. A member of the clergy will speak to you by phone or in person to plan the ceremony.
Adoption and Special Circumstances
We rejoice when a Jewish child is brought into the covenant through his or her family, regardless of age. Please contact one of our clergy to discuss ways to welcome your child into the covenant and the Jewish community.
