Aufrauf: A Festive Celebration for a Sweet Life Together
Aufrauf (pronounced oof-roof) is derived from German and Yiddish, and means “calling up.” On a Shabbat preceding a wedding ceremony, the couple and their families are invited to attend services, during which the couple is called together to the bimah. Traditionally, the couple will share an aliyah together in acknowledgement of their upcoming wedding. The rabbi recites a special prayer called a Mi-Shebeirach, expressing the community’s prayers that they establish a Jewish home filled with love and companionship.
Kiddushin: Forming a Family
Kiddushin is the Hebrew word for “marriage.” It comes from the same root as kodesh, which means “holy.” Both words contain within them the implication of “sacred” as “set aside, unique, unlike anything else.” The bond we form with a life-partner is meant to be just that – the most sacred, the most special, the most exclusive and unique relationship in our lives. At Kol Ami, we celebrate the formation of Jewish families through the traditions of our people. We know that Jewish families today come in many different forms, and couples looking ahead to a wedding or commitment ceremony should speak directly with our rabbi.
