Historically, Jewish people have formally welcomed boys into the covenant with God, marking the occasion with celebration and circumcision. The birth of a girl was met with joy, but no ritual or communal celebration. We offer a variety of ways to formally welcome both girls and boys. You’ll also find naming rituals and blessings for parents, grandparents and children.
Frameworks for the style of a welcoming and naming ritual
Practical matters and traditions to consider for a baby naming ceremony
Bringing the status and symbolism of covenant to the ceremony for welcoming and naming a daughter
Go forth to a place I will show you, a land you don’t know
Blessing for loved ones (partner, children, guest, etc…) on Shabbat or any occasion
A naming ceremony written especially for an adopted child
A prayer for the gift of an adopted child in which the baby is welcomed, the parents pledge to create a good and Jewish life for the child, and ask God’s blessings for the baby’s health and well-being
To be read at a Simchat Bat or Bris by the mother who has just given birth
Discover how Jewish folklore and personal memory can spark new poetry—join this creative immersion with poet Susan Comninos.
Give voice to your own stories through the timeless power of myth and writing.
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