Life Cycle Events

Consecration recognizes the child’s entry into Jewish religious education at a special Shabbat service in the autumn. 

Bar or Bat Mitzvah, literally “Son or Daughter of the Commandments,” commemorates the young person taking on the sacred obligation of the commandments at the age of thirteen. At Temple Beth El, we celebrate as the young person leads us in our service and is called to chant blessings for the Torah for the first time.

Confirmation celebrates the young person’s completion of Jewish studies within the Temple with a special service at the holiday of Shavuot.

Another way to join the Jewish people is through the process of conversion. Working with the Rabbi, those who seek to convert to Judaism embark on a course of study before formally joining the Jewish people through a conversion ceremony.

For adults, we periodically have adult education classes on topics ranging from Jewish comedians to learning Hebrew. 

Our Rabbi and community share the joy of couples who join their lives with the Sheva Brachot, the Seven Blessings, under a chuppah. 

There are times in our lives when each of us needs support and healing of body, mind, or spirit. There are times when we long for healing for those we love. At every Shabbat service, we set aside time to pray for those in need of healing. There is also a special Healing Service on Yom Kippur, as well as at other times of the year.

Judaism recognizes that death is a part of life’s journey. At each service, we remember our loved ones (of blessed memory) as we recite the kaddish. The memorial service of Yizkor is observed on Yom Kippur and other holidays. 

Temple Beth El provides funeral and shiva services. Funeral services may be at Temple Beth El, a funeral home, or at Temple Beth El’s Memorial Park cemetery or at a cemetery of choice. Shiva services may also be held at temple, at the mourner’s home, or at another location preferred by the family.