Weddings
Engaged? Dreaming of getting married? Mazel Tov!
I work with couples to plan meaningful wedding ceremonies that reflect the uniqueness of your relationship and your story, working with you to plan a special day that you will always remember. From our first meeting, I want to make sure that every word, and every ritual reflects your values and is fully “you” from beginning to end. We work to bring out the joy and spirituality inherent in the Jewish wedding rituals, yet also leave plenty of room for creativity, music, and pathways for participation.
As a Reconstructionist rabbi, I believe in the importance of maintaining the key traditional elements of the Jewish wedding ceremony, yet also make sure that the ceremony is fully egalitarian and leaves room for flexibility with theology, God-language or a secular/humanist understanding of Jewish tradition. Creativity is welcome, and smiles are required!
I welcome same-sex couples, and work to create a ceremony that is celebratory of your relationship, and gender appropriate based on your needs. I also perform interfaith marriages, as long as certain obligations are met. My goal is to create a ceremony that celebrates you and the love you have found!
It is preferred that you contact me at least 6 months before your wedding date, so that we have time to plan and prepare for the big day. More information is available on request.
Bris and Baby Namings
If you are expecting, I can help you plan a meaningful ceremony for you and your new child. For boys, there is the traditional bris, or a more egalitarian simchat ben ceremony, and for girls, a simchat bat. These ceremonies are a beautiful way to celebrate life and to officially welcome your child into the Jewish community. I support creativity and active participation of guests, and invite feminist and contemporary understandings of these ancient traditions.
Funerals
I am avaialble to do independent funerals, and provide pastoral counseling to those who have undergone a recent loss, or are in mourning.
For all lifecycle requests, I am available in the Montreal and Northern Vermont/New York area.
Shameless plug…My wife Sarah Dolin is a potter who makes beautiful Judaica, which make great wedding gifts and gifts for any occasion. You can see her work at SarahDolin.com
