 BirthThe naming of a baby on the bema in the Temple takes place a few weeks after the baby's birth. The child's Hebrew name is announced, as are the parents' desire and intention to raise the child as a Jew. An acceptance of baby girls into the Covenant is a part of the baby naming. Eight days after a boy's birth, a Brit Milah (circumcision) is performed. Reform mohelim, who are physicians, will perform this ritual. The Temple office staff provides information and referrals. Education Milestones The First - Religious school begins with a Consecration ceremony where each child receives a small Torah as a celebration and symbol of his or her commitment to lifelong Jewish learning. The Second - Bar/Bat Mitzvah marks the point where a person assumes responsibility for his or her Jewish observance. This achievement is the result of study of Judaism and the ability to read and chant in Hebrew. Traditionally solemnized at age thirteen, the celebrant participates in the service and reads and translates a Torah and Haftarah portion. The Third - Confirmation and post-confirmation classes provide the foundation for a lifetime of Jewish learning. Adult The Temple provides opportunities for adults who have not celebrated a Bar or Bat Mitzvah to study and participate in this experience. In addition, there are ample opportunities for adults to study Torah and to participate in a variety of classes. MarriageA beautiful and meaningful Reform ceremony combines tradition with equality, binding the bride and the groom in the promises of marriage. Death
Funeral services, Shiva service leaders, the daily Minyan and a cemetery committee provide support and help bereaved families to deal with death. Temple Har Zion has two sections at Pardes Shalom Cemetery on Dufferin Street, 2.5 km north of Major Mackenzie Drive. Print a map and diagram of Pardes Shalom.
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