Lifecycle Events
Brit Milah (Bris)
The Torah commands us to circumcise our newborn sons on the eighth day of their new lives. This powerful ceremony celebrates new life, and also brings our sons into Judaism’s sacred covenant. Rabbi Perry can put you in touch with a Mohel (ritual circumciser), help the parents understand the ceremony, and co-officiate, along with the Mohel. Read more about Brit Milah.
Baby Naming/Simchat Bat
We celebrate the great blessing of a newborn daughter with a ceremony that brings her into the covenant, and confers upon her a Hebrew name. Rabbi Perry can help you think through and design this ceremony, which can take place either at home, or at the synagogue.
Bar/Bat Mitzvah
Bar/Bat Mitzvah students are moving from childhood to adulthood; from learning to be responsible, to being responsible. As sons or daughters of the commandments, our B’nai mitzvah students are committing themselves to becoming proud members of our adult Jewish community.
- Bar/Bat Mizvah Requirements
- Bar/Bat Mitzvah Information Booklet (2022) (PDF) This booklet is designed to be a general resource guide as you begin to plan as your child becomes Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
- Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program Book Template (Word Doc)
- Audio files of the blessings and prayers can be downloaded from our Audio Player page.
Wedding
Rabbi Perry can help you prepare for this wonderful, joyous occasion, by teaching bride and groom the meaning of the ceremony, from Ketubah (marriage document), to Kiddushin (Engagement) to Huppah (Marriage Canopy) to Nissuin (marriage ceremony) to breaking the glass. Additionally, Rabbi Perry will counsel you, offering Jewish wisdom in preparation for a life dedicated to love and companionship.
Funeral
Rabbi Perry is available to perform funeral ceremonies and help you understand and implement other meaningful Jewish mourning practices.
Congregation Shalom has its own section within the Beth El Cemetery in Lowell, MA.