Brit Milah & Baby Naming

Before the Birth
If you know you’re having a boy, you’ll need to select a mohel (circumciser).  There are several mohalim in our area.  Some parents like to interview mohalim even before the baby is born. Contact the office for guidance.

On the Birth Day
On the day your baby is born, please contact Rabbi Safra’s office. We want to be able to properly congratulate you and help you secure a time for the Brit Milah or Naming and aliyah at B’nai Israel. If you would like to ensure that particular B’nai Israel clergy can conduct or participate in your simha, please contact them directly.

• Scheduling a Brit Milah: In addition to contacting the synagogue, be sure to contact the mohel on the day the baby boy is born, in order to secure a time for the Brit Milah.
• Scheduling a Naming: Parents can choose to have the naming during the regular Dweck Sanctuary service (Torah reading begins at approximately 9:50 AM) or the Shabbat Minha service (begins at 12:30 PM).  Contact Cantor Josh Perlman to reserve the date.

Next Steps
In addition to the Brit Milah and Naming ceremonies, it is common for families to make a donation to the synagogue and host an event in celebration.

• Making a Contribution: Consider making a contribution to the Shabbat Kiddush or a donation to the synagogue.  There is no fee for a Brit Milah or Naming, but contributions are welcome. Cantor Bolts will send information about the Shabbat Kiddush after the date is reserved.  You can make a contribution to the synagogue here.
• Planning the Party: To host a private event at the synagogue, please reserve a room by contacting Patricia Simitakos, Events Manager at 301-816-5573. Click here to read our list of approved caterers for food service.

Then join us for a special blessing of all babies born during the Jewish calendar year.  This ceremony is held on the Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.