The oldest Jewish congregation in the East San Francisco Bay region, founded in 1875, will host a groundbreaking discussion surrounding the choice to skip circumcision by Jewishly observant families. The Reform synagogue, Temple Sinai of Oakland California, has a long history of welcoming Jews of all stripes. They recently added language to their website indicating the Temple offers naming ceremonies for non-circumcising Jewish families.
Lisa Braver Moss, a longtime congregant of Temple Sinai, and co-author of the book Celebrating Brit Shalom (the first-ever book written specifically for Jewish families choosing not to circumcise) will speak following an introduction by Rabbi Mates-Muchin. Music from the book, Songs for Celebrating Brit Shalom, will also be performed by the composer Reuben Moss, who is Lisa’s son.
“Rebecca [Wald] and I realized there was no comprehensive resource out there for Jewish families questioning circumcision or opting out,” Lisa recently told the Peidmonter. “We wanted these families to have ready access to ceremonies that reflect their spiritituality and affirm their connection with the Jewish people.”
The event will take place on Sunday, May 1, at 1PM at Temple Sinai, in Oakland California. The community is invited and encouraged to attend. Temple affiliation, or Jewish background, is not required and the book talk and musical presentation are free of charge.