Lifecycles
זֶה־הַ֭יּוֹם עָשָׂ֣ה יְהוָ֑ה נָגִ֖ילָה וְנִשְׂמְחָ֣ה בֽוֹ
Zeh ha-yom asah Adonai, nagilah v’nis’m’chah bo.
“This is the day that God has made, let us rejoice and be glad.”
Psalm 118:24
We celebrate many of life’s milestones together in community. In times of joy as well as times of struggle, we find sanctity in these moments through Jewish ritual and tradition. Our rabbis are here for you to officiate at your family’s lifecycle moments, and to serve as spiritual counsel for you.
For milestone anniversaries and significant birthdays, we invite families to come celebrate at Hevreh on a Friday night, to receive a special blessing from the rabbis. Families will sponsor the oneg that evening. It’s a wonderful way to bring your joy into the fullness of our Hevreh community.
Confronting Illness, Spiritually
Hevreh is a caring congregation. We are here to support you and your family when illness and other struggles touch your life. The rabbis are available to accompany you through these moments. Hospital visits and home visits are part of their regular support to our families. And our Caring Community committee works hard to offer comfort and support congregant to congregant.
Importantly, we do not always know when someone falls ill. The grapevine and Facebook posts do not always make their way to the rabbis. HIPPA protocols prevent the hospitals from reaching out, unless the patient explicitly requests it. If you are looking for spiritual support in a time of need, please call the synagogue office at (413) 528-6378. During evening and weekend hours, you can also call (413) 717-1000 to connect with one of the rabbis directly.
Lifecycle Officiation
Please reach out to the clergy to discuss your family’s lifecycle moments:
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Brit Milah (ritual circumcision) and Baby Namings
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Conversion
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Weddings
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Milestone Anniversary Celebrations
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Illness
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Funerals
If you have been invited to officiate at a wedding or some other lifecycle moment for a family or friend, our rabbis offer training and guidance. Please reach out to them for an appointment to discuss.
Hevreh’s beautiful sanctuary and facilities are also available for rental for your celebrations. Please contact the synagogue office for more information.