Lifecycle Rituals

Reflections on a Jewish Baby-Naming

Margie Bogdanow

September 4, 2014

What we call ourselves and what others call us often impacts the way we view ourselves and the way we are seen in this world. With that as a belief, what a privilege it was to be involved in a naming ceremony for my granddaughter.

Lifecycle Rituals

What is the shmita or sabbatical year?

Rabbi Victor S. Appell

The sabbatical year, shmita in Hebrew, finds it roots in the Torah.

Jewish Rituals and Symbols

I am going to an unveiling. What should I expect?

Rabbi Victor S. Appell

An unveiling is the ceremony at which a tombstone is erected in memory of one who has died.

Lifecycle Rituals

Prayer for Campers

Rabbi Daniel Gropper

May the one who blessed our ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sara, Rebecca, Rachel and Leah bless all of these campers as they go off to summer camp.

Confirmation

What is Confirmation and what is its connection to Shavuot?

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.