BabyNaming

While the ritual of brit milah is traditional for Jewish boys, every Jewish baby is given a Hebrew name which links us to the Jewish people. We have taken the importance of naming in the Torah and made it into a ritual. Our names are filled with history. They reflect where we came from and what we are to become. Names tie us to our past and provide us with an opportunity for a wonderful family-learning experience.

Receiving a Hebrew name is the first Jewish life-cycle event for a child. Naming for girls usually takes place in a ceremony at the synagogue or during a special home ceremony, held soon after a baby's birth. In a synagogue ceremony, the parents and baby are called up to the Ark. The Ark is opened and the child is given a name in the presence of the community.

Scheduling a Naming

If you would like to schedule a baby naming, please contact Rabbi Shmuel Polin to set a date. The baby naming usually occurs during a Friday evening or Saturday morning service.

Fee – This is free to members for naming their children and grandchildren.  A tax deductible donation to Congregation Etz Chaim in the amount of $180 is requested from non-members.