Brit Milah and Baby Naming
The arrival of a new baby is a cause for rejoicing, not only by the immediate and extended family, but also by the Congregation and the community at large. A new child represents a world of possibilities and promise, and everyone at Beth David is happy to share in this Simcha. Members can arrange for a Brit Milah for their new son, either at the family’s home or in the hospital with the Rabbi in attendance. In the Resources section are listed pediatricians who are happy to serve as mohels. For a new girl, the proud parents can bring their daughter to the bimah for a special blessing by the Rabbi or arrange for a more private ceremony with the the Rabbi at their home. Email Barbara Biran
B’nei Mitzvah
The celebration of a Bar/Bat Mitzvah represents a transition point in a child’s Jewish life. It is an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge that a child has gained through formal education as well as the beginning of new personal and communal Jewish responsibilities. Email Barbara Biran
Weddings
Working with the Clergy
An engaged couple who wish to be married by one of Beth David’s Rabbis, whether at the synagogue or at another location, should contact the Office at least 6 months in advance to secure the date and confirm availability. Beth David Clergy do not perform interfaith weddings. Email
Aufruf
On the Shabbat prior to a wedding, many couples request an Aliyah during the Torah Service, after which, the Rabbi gives the bride and groom a special blessing and the congregation claps and sings “Mazal Tov.” The Office needs advance notice in order to schedule this honor. Email Barbara Biran
Conversion Classes
If one partner is not Jewish by birth, but intends to convert to Judaism prior to the wedding, the Rabbi can facilitate this conversion through classwork, individual counseling, and Mikveh arrangements. Email Barbara Biran
Compassion and Caring
Congregation Beth David is proud of the many ways in which members are encouraged to reach out to each other – in times of joy and in times of trouble. Several committees organize informal caretaking activities for families to provide a sense of support and community during a sorrowful time.
We Care
We care focuses on making the Congregation a resource for healing. We are a group of congregants dedicated to assisting other congregants in time of need and facilitating opportunities for mitzvot. These activites include providing dairy or parve meals for families with a new baby, for individuals returning home after a hospitalization, for someone recovering from an extended illness, or for families sitting Shiva. We Care also arranges transportation to doctors’ appointments for those who do not have transportation, and calls to individuals on the mishaberach list to counter their feelings of isolation. Email
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Bikkur Cholim
The Bikkur Cholim committee has existed for many years, and focuses on volunteer visits to the sick in hospitals and at home. Email
Hevra Kadisha
Hevra Kadisha assists a family who has suffered the loss of a loved one. The committee executes religious procedures for caring for the deceased (including guarding the body before burial), provides support for funeral arrangements and arranges Shiva Minyanim services in the home of the bereaved. Email Barbara Biran
Congregation Beth David Memorial Garden
In 2000, Beth David purchased land at the Oak Hill Cemetery and established a congregational cemetery, the Beth David Memorial Garden. Most burials of synagogue members now take place at this cemetery, but internment at other Jewish cemeteries in the area can also be arranged. Email Barbara Biran
Holding Your Life Cycle Event at Beth David
General Guidelines
Beth David welcomes the opportunity to participate in Life Cycle Events of our members, including Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebrations, wedding receptions, birthday and anniversary parties, and special occasions. Events are held in the Social Hall of the synagogue. The laws of Kashrut apply to all food service arrangements, and, if the event is held during Shabbat, entertainment is to be in keeping with the observances of the day. Specific guidelines are available in the Beth David Office. Email
Scheduling
It is important to reserve the Social Hall well in advance to avoid conflicts with other uses of the reception area and the kitchen. Reservations are made through the Beth David office. Email
Catering Services
All caters must be approved. Please see our list of approved caterers. For more information, please email Barbara Biran, Director of Operations and Ritual.