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Life Cycle Events

Rabbi Michael Adam Latz performs the following ceremonies:

  • Weddings. The rabbi officiates at weddings for any member when the couple is committed to the exclusive practice of Judaism in the home.
  • Brit Services (Covenant of life for newborns). The birth or adoption of both boys and girls is celebrated with a Brit Chayim, a naming ceremony that is usually performed at the synagogue. For boys, the Brit Milah, covenant of circumcision, is usually performed in the home by a mohel and the Rabbi.
  • Bar/Bat Mitzvah for children. We celebrate Bar/Bat Mitzvah for all of our 13 year olds who have been attending Shir Tikvah religious school and Hebrew School. The specific and general requirements are available to you here.
  • Bar/Bat Mitzvah for adults. Shir Tikvah loves to celebrate with its adult members who choose to observe a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. We offer a one-year Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah class that has one year of Hebrew and general Jewish studies as a prerequisite.
  • Conversions. The rabbi works closely with congregants who are considering or are in the process of conversion. He meets with the congregant several times, helps establish a study plan, and performs the conversion service.
  • Special occasions. The rabbi offers blessings at Shabbat services for special occasions and milestones. Let him know if you wish to receive such a blessing.
  • Funerals and Shiva Services. The rabbi conducts funeral and shiva services for members and immediate relatives. A rabbi is always on call when Rabbi Latz is out of town.
  • Divorce/Get Rituals. Please speak with the Rabbi if you wish to discuss a ritual Get following divorce.



 Shiva Support

Shiva is observed by family and friends, usually in the home of the deceased. Shiva begins on the day of burial and continues until the morning of the seventh day after burial. Many families shorten this period to two or three days. Prayer services are usually held where the shiva is held, with family, friends, and neighbors.

After the burial, a relative or friend (or Shir Tikvah member) prepares the first meal for the mourners, the se'udat havra'ah, the meal of condolence. This traditionally includes eggs (a symbol of life), bread, and other light items. This meal is typically for the family only. There are many variations of the above traditions and certainly many more traditions associated with the Jewish period of mourning.

It is important for each person to observe in a way that is personally meaningful. When members of Shir Tikvah lose close family members, the Shiva Committee is available to help in whatever way feels right for them.

Our Shiva Committee exists to help people around the basic needs upon the loss of a loved one. This might include providing general support when family and friends call, providing the traditional meal upon return from the cemetery and dinners for the family during Shiva.

For more information on life cycle events or shiva support, contact us.



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