Dana's Simchat Bat

This last Sunday, February 21st, we held a Simchat Bat, literally meaning Joy of a Daughter, for Dana. It is a ceremony where Dana was welcomed into the Jewish community and given her Hebrew name. There is no formal ceremony like there is for a brit milah (circumcision ceremony) with a boy. The ceremony has developed in recent times as families wanted a way to welcome their daughters into the community.

Dana's was held at our synagogue, Congregations Shearith Israel. We had over 100 family and friends in attendance. Dana is so lucky to have so many people around her who care about our family. During the ceremony, Dana was passed from her aunts to her great grandmother, grandparents, and finally to us, her parents. Next, each of the grandparents said a blessing over her as they wrapped her in the tallis (prayer shawl) that Ari and I were married in that was given to us from my parents after their trip to Israel. After that, Rabbi Menashe said a few words about Dana. Then he said the blessings giving her the official Hebrew name of Dana Michal. Ari and I then said a few words explaining where her names come from and what traits we hope that Dana will have that these people did. Dana is after Ari's Zaydie Raphael David (R.D.) Moses. Michelle is after Ellen's Grandfather Martin Rothman. Finally, Ari and I said the priestly blessing over Dana, which are a prayer that we will say over her each Friday night.

After the ceremony, everyone was invited to enjoy a festive meal. Spice of Life Catering (the synagogue caterer) did a fabulous job. The food looked beautiful and tasted delicious. Everyone enjoyed it. Ari, Dana, and I were able to walk around and visit with everyone during the meal.

Dana was a complete an angel during the whole morning. We forgot her bottles at home, so we weren't able to feed her before the ceremony (her usual feeding time). Thank you to my dad for running home to get them, which also allowed the few late comers to not miss anything. Even though she was hungry, she somehow stayed quiet during the ceremony, except when we had to lay her on the hard table to be wrapped in the tallis. She ate right after the ceremony and then slept during the rest of the meal. Maybe she was so warm and snuggly in her knit dress. Or she enjoyed being held the whole time by me and other people. Either way, I am not complaining :)

Overall, it was a wonderful day and we are thankful for all the family and friends that we have. Enjoy the pictures.