Birth and Baby Naming

The Child Naming (Brit Milah) is the most ancient of all ceremonies. Abraham was instructed to follow this tradition some four thousand years ago. It is actually the first commandment given to the Jewish people. For thousands of years, we have given Hebrew names to our children, and we continue this tradition here at Mickve Israel. A Hebrew name is actually a person’s name and his or her parent’s name. For instance, Rabbi Haas’ Hebrew name is Reuven Ben Alexander VeYaffa. Ruben, son of Alexander and Yaffa. It is only during the last couple of hundred years that people in the Jewish community have taken on the tradition of last names, often because of edicts enacted by governments.

Rabbi Haas and Cantor Rachel feel privileged lead a Child Namings here in our building, at someone’s home, at a venue. or even if requested, in the hospital. We welcome the invitation to lead a naming for members and non-members. We also invite members up to the Bima during Saturday services for a naming in front of the community.

The service consists of the prayer to bring the child into the community and the prayer given him/her a Hebrew name. We also invite the family to explain the reasons for choosing both the Hebrew and English names

It is a wonderful tradition, and we are so thrilled welcome new Jewish community members. 

If you are interested in a Child Naming, please contact Rabbi Haas or Cantor Rachel.