Question 1

What supplies do we need?

Accepted Answer

There is a prep document/checklist in the resources tab.

Home supplies
 • Wastebasket (lined)
 • Sturdy table (bridge table or larger)
 • Lamp
 • Chair(s) for table (for number of Sandeks)
 • Chair for Elijah
 • Chairs for anyone that will want/need to sit
 • Kiddush cup
 • Challah 
 • Wine (Kosher is optional)
 • Candles, candlesticks, matches
 • Twin size pillow and pillow case 
 • Hand sanitizer
 • Nonslippery table cloth (optional)
 • Yarmulkes (optional)
 • Tallit (optional)

Supplies for your baby (during and post)
 • Vaseline (generic tub is fine)
 • Q-tips (for vaseline, clean fingers are fine too)
 • Diapers (will double diaper post procedure)
 • Box of 4x4 sterile gauze
 • Pacifier 
 • Swaddling blanket x2
 • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for baby (infant drops)
 • Baby wipes

Question 2

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Cost depends on many factors. For more information on fees, contact Dr. Tothy.

Question 3

What if we have twins?

Accepted Answer

If you are welcoming twins or triplets, you can hold one ceremony for all your boys, provided they are healthy on the 8th day and medically cleared by their doctor. The ceremony for multiples is similar to that of a single baby, with the honors being shared or multiplied accordingly!

If your twins or triplets include a girl, you can still have one celebration to honor the births of all your children. However, there is no physical ritual performed for baby girls.

Question 4

Will you perform Brit Milah for any Jewish family?

Accepted Answer

I am deeply honored to serve as a Mohelet for Jewish families of all backgrounds. I embrace and celebrate the unique love and culture that make your family special. For some families, being part of a Jewish community has been a cherished tradition for generations. For others, this bris marks the beginning of their journey into the Covenant. No matter your story, I am honored and delighted to work with your family to create a meaningful ceremony.

Question 5

Can my Rabbi be involved?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Absolutely! I will work with you and your Rabbi to create a Brit Milah that works for your family.

Question 6

When do we have the Brit Milah (Bris)?

Accepted Answer

The Brit Milah of a healthy baby is traditionally performed on the eighth day of life, with the day of birth counted as the first day. In Jewish tradition, days begin and end at sunset. For example, if a baby is born on a Sunday during the day, his Brit Milah will take place the following Sunday. However, if the baby is born on Sunday night after sunset, it will be scheduled for the following Monday. The ceremony must occur during daylight hours, and it is customary to hold it early in the day as an expression of eagerness to fulfill this mitzvah.

The commandment to perform Brit Milah on the eighth day is so significant that it takes precedence over Shabbat, Yom Kippur, or other Jewish holidays.

Question 7

Where should we have the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

A Brit Milah should take place in a setting that feels most comfortable and convenient for your family.

Typically, it is held in the family’s home or at the residence of a close relative. However, other options include a synagogue, a private room in a restaurant, or a catering hall. The choice of location should reflect your family’s preferences and needs.

Question 8

Is there a ceremony for girls?

Accepted Answer

Yes! There is a ceremony for girls called a Brit Bat or Bat Shalom. This beautiful ceremony celebrates the entry of baby girls into the covenant of Judaism. While there is no physical procedure involved, girls are warmly welcomed into the Jewish community through a meaningful baby-naming ceremony. The Brit Bat closely resembles the Brit Milah, including many of the same honors and traditions.

Question 9

Can a woman be a Mohel?

Accepted Answer

Yes! A female Mohel is called a Mohelet, and I received the same training as other Reform Mohalim. Interestingly, the concept of a female Mohelet has roots in the Torah. In the story of Exodus, you may recall that Miriam, Moses’ sister, is traditionally considered the first female Mohelet, as she circumcised her brother. This historical connection highlights the longstanding role of women in Jewish tradition and rituals.

Chicago
Baby
Bris

Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana

Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana