How Is Brit Milah Performed?

Brit Milah is usually performed on the eighth day of life. For example, if a baby is born on Wednesday, his Brit Milah would take place the following Wednesday.  If he is born on Tuesday night (since the Jewish day begins at sunset), it would also be on Wednesday.  Brit Milah is not normally postponed even for Shabbat or holidays.  The exception to this is if a baby is born by Caesarian section or if the circumcision is part of conversion.  It is of course postponed for any health concerns.  If your baby has jaundice, was in the special care nursery, or has any other health problems, please let me know. I will consult with your baby’s health care provider to determine whether the ceremony can take place on the eighth day. Availability of the mohel can be an issue.  I am fortunate to have a flexible schedule that can usually accommodate your need for Brit Milah on the 8th day.

Brit Milah must be performed during daylight hours.  It is preferable to have it early in the day.  Depending on your rabbi’s schedule, my schedule, and your desire, this can be done in the morning, noontime or (during the summer) in late afternoon/early evening.

Brit Milah can take place in your home or synagogue.  It is customary to serve some type of meal afterwards, so the location should be somewhere that you are comfortable, that will accommodate the number of guests you expect, and where food can be served.