The canopy under which Jewish couples stand when they are married is called a chuppah . The chuppah represents the new home a couple establishes through their marriage.
Yes, Jews always participate fully in the life of the country of which they are citizens. Many congregations include a prayer on behalf of the country in Shabbat services. This prayer, from Mishkan T'filah, is especially appropriate as the United States and Canada celebrate their independence. O Guardian of life
Aufruf (pronounced "owf-roof," or more colloquially "oof-roof ") is a German word meaning "calling up" and refers to a synagogue celebration on the Shabbat preceding the wedding.
Confirmation is a Reform-originated ceremony for teens that is tied to the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. It constitutes an individual and group affirmation of commitment to the Jewish people. Confirmation, one of the “youngest” Jewish lifecycle ceremonies, began less than 200 years ago.