Intimate relationships bring two people together in a unique emotional and physical connection. This is something to celebrate, whether through the public festivity of a wedding, or in the private reflection of immersion in the mikvehThe ritual bath. The waters of the mikveh symbolically purify – they are seen as waters of rebirth. A convert immerses in the mikveh as part of conversion. Many Orthodox married women go to the mikveh following their period and before resuming sexual relations. Couples go to the mikveh before being married. Many, including some men, immerse before Yom Kippur; some go every Friday before Shabbat.. Sanctifying our intimate relationships elevates these unions and gives them a context of meaning and joy.
“So dear this daughter / As she prepares to immerse”
“May you join together in songs of praise, songs of joy and songs of sorrow.”
“becoming a parent is a significant lifecycle event and merits its own ritual”
“Here, in hearth of heart, / All is made whole.”
“Let your whole range of emotions surround you and wash over you like the water”
Non-Theistic Jewish Wedding Blessings
Welcome HanukkahThe holiday which celebrates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem following its conquest by the Syrians in 165 BCE. The holiday is celebrated by lighting candles in a hanukiyah oon each of eight nights. Other customs include the eating of fried foods such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiot (jelly donuts), playing dreidl (a gambling game with a spinning top), and, in present day America, gift giving. through the Nia movement practice. We’ll kindle our unique candles to music by Jewish singers, followed by prompts for reflection and writing. Nia is adaptable to individual needs and abilities. Move with us on December 7, 2023.
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