Although some Jewish people throughout history have chosen not to circumcise, the idea of a replacement ceremony for the traditional bris is relatively new. One of the first known rabbi-led brit shalom ceremonies took place in the mid-1980s and was officiated by Rabbi Nathan Segal (1949-2019). In addition to being a non-circumcising Jew, Rabbi Nathan…
Jewish services and celebrations are usually followed by a festive meal. New parents might be too tired to want to cook, so ordering in or having everyone bring a dish to share are popular options. It’s a matter of personal choice and budget whether your brit shalom is a fully catered event or a simple…
There is no standard formula for a brit shalom, and parents and/or clergy should choose blessings and readings that are meaningful both for the moment and for the specific family. Planning the brit shalom is a creative act. Liturgy might closely follow that of brit milah, with the act of circumcision being replaced by something…
If your family is having a brit shalom, you’ll probably want to assign roles (for example, kvatter and sandek, who are honorees) and have a few things on hand, including chosen prayers, kosher wine, a kiddush cup, a challah, a ceremonial chair, a pillow for the baby to rest on, etc. For more information about…
When it comes to having a brit shalom, there are lots of choices. Rabbi-led in a synagogue is an option, but these ceremonies can also take place at home, or even outdoors. A family’s prior involvement in congregational life, the time of year/weather, and what feels most comfortable for parents and baby are often deciding…
Babies assigned female at birth are typically given a Hebrew name during the Torah service shortly following their birth. Brit milah is a male-only ceremony, and brit shalom was originally conceived to be a male-only alternative. However, modern notions about gender and equality are changing the way many of us look at Jewish ritual —…
