Birth and Adoption

The arrival of a new child—by birth or adoption—is one of life’s most profound blessings. Jewish tradition recognizes these moments as sacred opportunities to express gratitude, deepen connection, and welcome new life into the covenant and community of Israel. Whether through ancient ritual or modern ceremony, these milestones allow families to celebrate both continuity and love in deeply meaningful ways.

Brit Milah (Covenantal Circumcision)
For a baby boy, the brit milah—the covenant of circumcision—is among Judaism’s oldest and most enduring rituals. Performed on the eighth day of life when possible, the brit affirms the timeless connection between each generation and the covenant God made with Abraham. As a rabbi, I help families prepare spiritually and practically for the ceremony, ensuring it reflects both tradition and the unique spirit of the family. Together we create a celebration that honors heritage, community, and the hope embodied in a new life.
Simḥat Bat (Celebrating a Daughter)
For daughters, the simḥat bat, or "celebration of a daughter," offers a beautiful way to welcome a new baby girl into the covenant and the Jewish people. Rituals vary—from naming ceremonies during services to home-based gatherings that include prayers, readings, or blessings created especially for the family. Each ceremony is an opportunity to express joy, gratitude, and the hopes parents hold for their child. I work with families to design a meaningful ritual that feels both personal and authentically Jewish.
Pidyon HaBen (Redemption of the Firstborn)
The pidyon haben, or "redemption of the firstborn son," is a lesser-known yet captivating mitzvah observed when a family's firstborn male child is neither a kohen nor a levi. Traditionally held on the 31st day after birth, this ceremony recalls the ancient redemption of firstborn Israelites and serves as a reminder of life’s sacredness and God’s continuing presence in our milestones. I’m honored to guide families through the history, symbolism, and practice of this unique commandment.
Adoption and Covenant
Jewish tradition teaches that bringing a child into one’s family through adoption is an act of holiness—partnering with God in the sacred work of creation and compassion. For adoptive parents and families, a welcoming or naming ceremony can mark this moment of covenantal love, affirming that every child is fully embraced within the Jewish community. Together, we can design a ritual that weaves ancient blessings with your family’s story, honoring both the miracle of new beginnings and the enduring bonds of love.
Contact Rabbi Phil
Welcoming a new child into your family is a tender and holy moment, and it is an honor to be invited into that sacred space. Whether you are planning a brit milah, simḥat bat, pidyon haben, or a welcoming ceremony for an adopted child, conversation is the best way to begin shaping something that feels right for your family.

If you are beginning to think about a ceremony, or even if you are just exploring possibilities, you are invited to reach out. Share a bit about your family, your hopes, and the kind of experience you imagine, and together we can explore meaningful options that reflect your values, traditions, and unique story.

You can use the contact form on this site. Messages are answered as promptly as possible, and each inquiry is treated with care, respect, and confidentiality.