We are there for each other in life's most meaningful moments.

Coming together in times of joy and sorrow.

We celebrate together. We grieve together. Our congregation supports and guides each other through life's important rites and passages.

Birth/Baby Welcoming

Welcoming a new child is a joy to be celebrated and at Congregation Shalom we can help you create a meaningful ceremony that expresses your hopes and values. Whether it is Brit milah (ritual circumcision), a Brit Bat (a covenant ceremony for daughters), a naming, an adoption ceremony, a mikvah for conversion or a special family blessing, we will help you to create a joy-filled, personal experience. Non-members and families of all backgrounds are welcome to reach out for more information as well. 

Consecration

At Congregation Shalom we nurture a joy of Jewish learning for all our children, and there is no better time than at the beginning of their education. We celebrate this moment with the ceremony of Consecration on the festival of Simchat Torah. Each young person receives a miniature Torah, recites the Shema, and is blessed and welcomed as our newest learners.

B'Mitzvah

The transition to adulthood is a powerful time in a young person’s life and each student’s journey is unique. At Congregation Shalom we help young people navigate their B’Mitzvah experience in a personalized and supportive manner. We strive to help them explore their Jewish identity in a meaningful and purposeful way. Each B’Mitzvah is celebrated and our goal is to help each family feel the beauty and joy of their child coming of age in a loving Jewish community.

Confirmation

Confirmation is another important rite of passage for young people. Although B’Mitzvah is a step on the journey to adulthood, Confirmation is another opportunity for young people to explore their commitment to Jewish life and community and to reflect upon their spiritual beliefs. After a time of study and discussion, Confirmation students create a personally meaningful service for the congregation that reflects their  beliefs, hopes and values. 

Marriage

A wedding is a sacred and joyous union of two people who hope to build a life together and it helps to frame the hopes and dreams for the marriage that follows. Rabbi Perry works with each couple to create a personalized ceremony for their wedding day, as well as to help set a framework for a strong and committed relationship/marriage.  It is an honor to help couples of all ages celebrate this exciting chapter in their lives. In addition, there are opportunities for an aufruf or wedding blessing in the synagogue before a wedding ceremony. 

Conversion

Since biblical times, Judaism has welcomed individuals who would like to become part of the Jewish community. The process of conversion is a deeply personal process of spiritual exploration and study. At Congregation Shalom, all people who are interested in this journey are welcomed. They will work with Rabbi Perry as they learn about Jewish values, customs, and beliefs and they will be welcomed into our synagogue’s communal life.

Hebrew Names

In the book of Proverbs we read “A good name is preferable to great riches.” In Jewish tradition a naming is an opportunity to honor a loved one or to capture a character trait or ideal that we hope will manifest in one’s life. Hebrew names are used at all special life cycle moments, and people of all ages can be part of this ritual.

Death and Bereavement

Grief is painful to navigate and feel terribly isolating. Our rabbi and community is committed to helping every person and family through times of sadness and loss. We can assist with funeral preparations, funeral and memorial services, shivah gatherings and unveiling. Perhaps most importantly, we will strive to support each person emotionally and spiritually during times of loss.