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LIFECYCLE

Temple Beth-El is honored to guide and support our members at every stage of their lives; to share and celebrate the most joyous moments and provide comfort in times of sorrow. Our clergy, congregation and facilities support our members at every step in their lives including:

Birth

A new baby in the family! Our clergy are delighted to celebrate this blessing and help young families begin their spiritual journey. Whether you are new to Temple Beth-El, or are the child or grandchild of members, all are invited to join us in welcoming your child into the Jewish community. 

While it is customary to bless and name a child at Temple during a Shabbat service, our clergy will also conduct a private ceremony on another day of the week outside of the congregation or at your home. When the naming is held during a worship service, it is customary for the family to host the oneg.

B’nei Mitzvah

According to Jewish tradition, thirteen is the age when a child is called to take on religious responsibility. This lifecycle transition is marked by a ceremony called b’nei mitzvah (children of the commandments). When young adults recite the blessings over the Torah, they affirm their willingness to take responsibility for the traditions, rituals and heritage that is being passed on to them. Learn More

Conversion

For those who were raised in a different faith, or with no faith at all, but have been living “Jewishly”; for those whose spouse or partner is Jewish; or for those who have simply discovered that the values and traditions of Judaism make sense in their lives, we invite you to take the next step. Temple Beth-El warmly welcomes and supports those who are interested in becoming Jewish.

Our clergy are honored to work with those wishing to convert to Judaism. The process includes enrolling in an Introduction to Judaism class, individual meetings with the clergy, and active engagement in Jewish life. It is a process which usually is completed over the course of a year, and culminates with immersion in a mikveh (ritual bath) and an opportunity to celebrate this new beginning with a blessing at the congregation.

Marriage

Marriage is a beautiful and holy way for a couple to affirm their commitment to each other. Temple Beth-El is an inclusive community, and our clergy are pleased to work closely with Jewish, interfaith, and LGBTQ couples to prepare for the blessings of marriage, and to create a Jewish wedding ceremony that is warm, personal and spiritual.

Our clergy look forward to meeting directly with couples to ascertain their individual needs and to provide answers and support appropriate for their individual circumstances.

End of Life 

Whether the loss of a loved one is anticipated or comes unexpectedly, family members often feel unprepared.  Our clergy are here to support and guide you and your family. “Our Reform Jewish Funeral Practices” booklet  provides a deeper understanding of the Jewish approach to life and death, and addresses many of the traditions and customs surrounding death, burial rites, and mourning. It also contains information about our funeral plan, whether a funeral service is held at Temple Beth-El, graveside, or at a funeral chapel.

Support

Our clergy want to offer support before a loved one has passed away. They know that being together with a family when death is near is a sacred moment. Their presence can bring comfort to one who is dying, and support to their family. And their knowledge of tradition and ritual can help to ease this difficult time.

After a loved one has passed away, please call the Temple before making arrangements so our clergy can assure their availability with you during your time of need. Our clergy will meet with you and your family to help you choose the best way to honor your loved one; can connect you with a Jewish funeral chapel, will officiate at your loved one’s funeral and burial services and make arrangements for shiva minyans.

From the rituals and customs of our religion — preparing for a funeral, sitting shiva, saying kaddish, and observing yahrzeit — to the emotions and grief surrounding a loss, our Temple community is here to serve.

Dedication or Unveiling Service  

The term “unveiling” comes from the act of removing the cloth covering a headstone — as one unveils or dedicates the permanent marker at a loved one’s gravesite. Although it is often customary for this service to take place at the end of the first year of mourning, it may be scheduled any time after a month has passed from the date of the funeral.

This service can be led by one of our clergy, or if one prefers to conduct the service on their own, we are happy to provide materials to do so.

Yizkor  

Even after the official period of mourning comes to an end, one may find comfort attending a yizkor service at Temple Beth-El. Held four times during the year — on Yom Kippur and during the festivals of Sukkot, Passover, and Shavuot — the service is an opportunity for our community to come together in prayer, remembrance, and personal reflection.

Celebrations

In addition to the “big” life cycle events, we also love those “Shehechiyahnu moments” — the times when we are thankful for new and special experiences.

Let our clergy know when you are celebrating a milestone birthday or anniversary, and our clergy will mark this special occasion with a blessing during Shabbat services.

To enhance the celebration, please consider Sponsoring an Oneg, and inviting friends and family to attend.

Tue, March 19 2024 9 Adar II 5784