Lifecycles

A Bride's Prayer on Behalf of Agunot | Prayer

There is a folk tradition that the gates of heaven are particularly open to the prayers of the bride and groom. In some communities, wedding couples are handed small pieces of paper prior to the processional on which personal prayers are written. They read these prayers as they walk down the aisle and while circling one another. This prayer is offered in that tradition.

Kiddushin (Erusin — Betrothal) | Article

By Rabbi Rona Shapiro

A brief article describing the practice of kiddushin (the first part of the wedding ceremony) and modern variations and alternatives

Erusin — Betrothal | Ritual Component

By James I. Greene and Jennifer S. Corman

A new erusin blessing

Nissuin (Nuptials) | Article

By Rabbi Rona Shapiro

The text of the blessings in Hebrew and translation, an explantion, feminist considerations, two alternative same-sex texts and an additional prayer for heterosexual couples to add for same-sex partners whose love is not yet sanctified and recognized in the same way.

Wedding Ritual to Bind Step-Families | Ritual Component

By Linda Kriger

These words are addressed to stepchildren standing under their new parents' chuppah.

Chuppah (Wedding Canopy) | Article

By Rabbi Rona Shapiro

A brief explanation of the custom of the chuppah, ideas on creating one's own chuppah, and an explanation of circling

Kavvanot (Orientations) for the Seven Wedding Benedictions | Prayer

By Rabbi David Sulomm Stein and Shulamit Sulomm Gehlfuss

Taken from traditional sources and intended to be read prior to each of the seven wedding blessings

Seven Circles | Poem

A poem to be read before or during circling under the chuppah

Spilling out Wine: A New Wedding Blessing | Ritual Component

By Deborah Eisenbach-Budner

Under the chuppah, a heterosexual couple expressed their sadness for the inequitable status of same-sex couples.

Abbreviated Sheva Brachot | Reading

Adapted by Lori Lefkovitz

Suitable for pluralistic or non-religious ceremonies

Trans/Gender Queer Jewish Wedding Service | Complete Ceremony

By Rabbi Elliot Rose Kukla

This is a ritual template for creating a Jewish wedding service that celebrates gender and sexual diversity.