Stuart Rubenstein, M.D., F.A.A.P.
Certified Mohel
Former Chief of Pediatrics,
Scripps Memorial Hospital,
La Jolla, CA

Instructions

The following items will be necessary at the Bris:

  • Table. A sturdy table (better than a card table) would be ideal. The table is considered the alter and is where the circumcision will be performed. Also on the table will be the Sabbath Candles, pictures of relatives, flower petals and the Kiddush cup (as well as my instruments). The table should be placed in a room so that myself, the Sandak and the parents can stand behind it. There should be enough room in front of the table for the guests. Guests should be standing during the ceremony. Cover the table with a cloth table sheet (blue or white).
  • Kosher Concord grape wine for the guests and baby. Please pre-pour the wine for the guests before the ceremony.
  • Challah (except during Passover)
  • Diapers, baby wipes, bulb syringe, Vaseline, and Infant Tylenol
  • One standard sized pillow
  • Stop feeding the baby one hour before the Bris
  • The baby should wear a gown that can be raised above the diaper level
  • Turn off the phones and answering machine before the ceremony. Place a sign on the door that reads “Please come in” so that guests will not knock on the door during the ceremony. Remind guests to turn off cell phones before the ceremony.
  • Have your guests come 15 to 20 minutes before the start of the ceremony so that it may begin on time.
Serving San Diego County and Southern California