Pregnancy & Childbirth

It is a blessing to create and carry life in our bodies. Giving birth is one of life’s great privileges. It allows us to partner with the divine in the act of creation. Historically, Judaism provided scant opportunity to mark this occasion. Here, we offer prayers and rituals for celebrating this unique and wondrous experience.

Latest Rituals

Traditional blessings for mikveh immersion

A mother’s prayer for her child

“We vow at this moment of creation / to further the work of Creation…”

A blessing for a premature baby

A blessing of strength and resilience for a premature baby

Watch this video to learn more about birkat hagomel, a blessing to be recited after safely making it through childbirth

Prayer for parents-to-be and health care providers (i.e., midwives or ObGyn) at the beginning of labor

A prayer for strength and good counsel during a difficult moment in pregnancy

A prayer of thanksgiving for the goodness, protection, and empowerment in our lives

The Reconstructionist Network

Serving as central organization of the Reconstructionist movement

Training the next generation of groundbreaking rabbis

Modeling respectful conversations on pressing Jewish issues

Curating original, Jewish rituals, and convening Jewish creatives

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The Reconstructionist Network