The Brit Milah ceremony (Bris) is possibly the oldest ritual in our nearly 4000 year history; thus it is rich with many beautiful customs. Presented below are the customs that Dr. Weiss follows. However, it is possible to sometimes include other customs and family traditions.

The ceremony starts with the baby in another room while his family, friends, and community gather together. Before the ceremony, the infant is examined to assure that he is well enough to undergo the circumcision and to have local anesthesia (if desired by the parents) administered.

It is traditional to have candles burning in the room or home where the Bris is to take place.  The candles are lit without any Brachah.  The guests stand for the ceremony.  The child is brought in on a pillow by the Kvatter and Kvatterin while everyone stands and exclaims Baruch Habah (Blessed is he that enters). The child is then placed on the Chair of Elijah while a prayer is said that greets Elijah and asks for God's assistance with the circumcision. The child is passed to the Sandek who holds him while the circumcision is performed. The father recites the blessing of the covenant while the child is swaddled and handed to the Sandek sheni or the mother for the naming ceremony. Then we celebrate with a festive meal.

As the Bris is such a short ceremony, it can easily be enhanced as much or as little as desired with explanations, readings and divre Torah (words of Torah).  Often, the parents will choose to say a few words about the source and meaning of the name given to the baby.  This can be done immediately after the naming ceremony, or during the festive meal.