Lifecycle

Birth & Adoption — Welcoming New Life

Every new child is a spark of possibility for the whole community. Whether you’re preparing for birth, celebrating adoption, or marking a brit milah or brit bat, we’ll stand with you in joy and blessing. Our Student Rabbi can help you shape a short, heartfelt ceremony—at home, in shul, or wherever feels right—and guide you through choosing Hebrew names, readings and meaningful rituals that feel just right for your family. When you join us, you’ll be connected with a vibrant, diverse network of young families who are building intentional Jewish homes too.

Start a conversation:

B’nei Mitzvah — Growing Into Jewish Adulthood

Reaching the age of b’nei mitzah is a signifcant milestone for a young person as they step into Jewish responsibility. It’s also a meaningful time for their families and all those who support them into adulthood. We build the journey one household at a time—whatever helps your child share their voice and feel supported. Parents or guardians can be in touch with our Young People’s Formation Team to explore having a B’Mitzvah at Makor Hayim. Email to find out more.

Weddings & Partnership Ceremonies

Celebrating a new couple beneath the chuppah is a ritual woven from tradition, joy and your own story. We offer inclusive Jewish weddings and partnership blessings for all couples, including those with mixed faiths and beliefs.. You’ll meet with our Student Rabbi to create a ceremony that honours our heritage and your values—from ketubah wording to music and readings. And you’ll receive a warm welcome and hearty support from our wider community too as you prepare to build a Jew/ish home.

Planning ahead? Email as soon as you start looking at dates.

Illness — Showing up with Chesed / Loving-kindness

We know that navigating illness – physical or mental—can be lonely and frightening. And at these moments, having our journey validated , whether through a kind listening ear, or a prayer for healing at Shabbat services, can make a world of difference. . Our small care team can check in in by phone or visit, always respecting your privacy and wishes. | 07565 944 485

Bereavement — Walking Together Through Loss

JJBS membership All Makor Hayim Builders are automatically enrolled in the Jewish Joint Burial Society (JJBS) unless they have opted out. JJBS guarantees a dignified Reform Jewish burial or cremation for the member and, where applicable, their partner and dependent children. What to do when someone dies Contact Chesed team on xxxx. As it’s entirely staffed by volunteers, if you require urgent support, please contact JJBS on:

Call JJBS on 020 8989 5252 as soon as possible. They will guide you through the practical steps and liaise with the funeral director. JJBS
Contact Stacy Hackner on 07565 944485. We will coordinate with JJBS, arrange the funeral service and offer pastoral support.
Registration. JJBS will advise on obtaining the Medical Certificate and registering the death.

Shiva and beyond When a loved one dies, we can help organise shiva prayers at home or on Zoom, provide a simple prayer booklet, and keep in touch in the weeks that follow. For Builders (Community Members), we can coordinate a care package and meal rota for your family to save you cooking or worrying about essentials while you’re mourning. Non-urgent questions: