What happens at a brit?
A brit ceremony usually takes 15-20 minutes with the actual circumcision lasting only a minute or two. We begin with the mother lighting candles. Next, the baby is brought into the room on a pillow. At this point, Rabbi Cooper offers an explanation of the meaning of the Brit Milah ceremony. Then, the baby is placed on the Chair of Elijah, symbolizing the prayer that the baby grow up in a world of peace and righteousness. The circumcision takes place next, after which the baby receives his Jewish name. At the conclusion of the Brit it is customary to share a meal of celebration.
