LIFE CYCLES AT BNAI SHALOM

WEDDING

Your wedding is likely to be one of the most significant moments in your life. It marks the formal affirmation that you and your fiance love one another, share a common set of beliefs and are ready to embark on a life of happiness together.

Whether you are looking to hold your wedding at B'nai Shalom or out of town, we hope your all allow our community to share in the nachas (joy) of your wedding festivities.

An Auf Ruf (calling up) is a communal acknowledgement of your upcoming wedding. The chatan (groom) to-be is called before the congregation for an aliyah. Following the aliyah, the rabbi typically offers a few remarks and bestows a prayer on the wedding couple, before the congregation showers you with candy, symbolizing the sweetness of your upcoming union.

Whether you are having your wedding at B'nai Shalom elsewhere, we invite you and your fiance to share in your simcha by being called to the Torah for an aliyah prior to your wedding. To schedule your Auf Ruf, contact the synagogue office at 973-631-0160.

Our Rabbi welcomes the opportunity to officiate at your wedding. Please note: Our tradition limits the time a service may begin on Saturday night and excludes certain days in the spring and summer. Contact the rabbinic office prior to setting the date and time of your ceremony.

Prior to your wedding, the rabbi requires at least three one-hour counseling sessions with the wedding couple. This allows you the opportunity to get to know the rabbi, ask questions and work through the details of your ceremony. It also allows the rabbi to learn more about you and your fianc and to anticipate your plans and Jewish life together. These sessions can be held by Skype for couples who do not reside in the West Orange area.

B'nai Shaloms Gruhin sanctuary can accommodate most wedding ceremonies. You may also choose to hold your wedding reception in our Maron social hall. We welcome the opportunity to show you our facilities and discuss your simchah in greater detail.