Blending of the Old and New

 

The groom’s background is Jewish, the bride’s Christian. 

 They chose to have a Christian ceremony, but wanted to include some of the Jewish traditions: 

Chuppah

The wedding ceremony takes place under the chuppah (canopy), a symbol of the home that the new couple will build together. It is open on all sides, just as Abraham and Sarah had their tent open all sides to welcome people in unconditional hospitality.

Breaking the Glass

A glass is now placed on the floor, and the chatan shatters it with his foot. This serves as an expression of sadness at the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, and identifies the couple with the spiritual and national destiny of the Jewish people. A Jew, even at the moment of greatest rejoicing, is mindful of the Psalmist’s injunction to “set Jerusalem above my highest joy.”

The incorporation of these made this sacred ritual even more so and all the families were happy with the ceremony.  This couple plans to make a trip to Israel as part of an excavation project this winter.  That makes this entire journey come full circle.  We pray for peace and protection and great memories for this special couple that chose to share their day with us.  Congratualtions and “Mazel Tov!”