In Collaboration with
As part of My First Journeys, this programme at Chesed-El Synagogue invites you to explore key Jewish birth ceremonies, such as Brit Milah, Pidyon Haben, and Bar Mitzvah, each symbolising important milestones in a Jewish child’s life. Brit Milah, the circumcision ceremony performed on the eighth day, marks the covenant between the Jewish people and God. Pidyon Haben, the Redemption of the Firstborn, is a ceremony held on the 30th day of a boy’s life to dedicate him to God. Finally, the Bar Mitzvah is a significant rite of passage that takes place when a Jewish boy turns 13, signifying his full responsibilities within the Jewish faith.
These ceremonies reflect the rich tapestry of faith, tradition, and community that defines Jewish life, guiding children as they grow into their roles within the faith. Participants will gain insights into how these ceremonies are celebrated, the deeper meanings behind each, and the values they instill in both individuals and the community. The session will also offer a Q&A opportunity, allowing for further reflection on how these traditions are integrated into Jewish life, celebrating the journey of birth and new beginnings.
Rabbi Nissim Zawady’s journey through Judaism has taken him around the world, from his hometown in Colombia to Israel, Greece, and now Singapore. His path has been shaped by the warmth and generosity of the Jewish communities he has encountered, and Singapore has proven to be no exception. It is this spirit of kindness and solidarity that continually inspires him and motivates his work.
Rabbi Nissim serves as the Rabbi of Chesed-El Synagogue, where he dedicates much of his time to building and nurturing a sense of community. In addition to his duties at the synagogue, he has been volunteering with the Chevra Kadisha in Singapore for five years. This sacred role, caring for the deceased and ensuring their final rites are honored with respect, holds deep significance for Rabbi Nissim. Despite the emotional challenges, especially when encountering familiar faces, his unwavering commitment to kindness and service drives him to continue fulfilling this important responsibility.
Through his work, Rabbi Nissim embodies the values of compassion, service, and respect for tradition, making a lasting impact on the Jewish community in Singapore.
The Chesed-El Synagogue, established in 1905, is a significant landmark in Singapore’s Jewish community. Its name, meaning “Mercy of God,” reflects its role as a center of worship, community, and cultural life for Jewish people in Singapore. Built by the wealthy philanthropist Sir Manasseh Meyer, the synagogue was created to accommodate the growing Jewish population, particularly following the influx of Jewish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The synagogue, located at Oxley Rise, was designed to serve both Sephardic and Ashkenazi communities, helping bridge divisions between the two groups in the practice of Jewish rituals. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, Chesed-El Synagogue was gazetted as a national monument in 1988.
Today, Chesed-El remains an active place of worship and community gathering, offering services and events for Jews of various backgrounds. It continues to play a central role in preserving Jewish heritage and fostering unity within Singapore’s Jewish population.
Christine Lim is a long-time volunteer with My Community, best known for her role as a Sentosa tour guide, where she led participants through the island’s hidden heritage sites.
In addition to guiding on Sentosa, she served as a facilitator for the Singapore Hokkien Dinner, and in past years helped run themed cultural dinners like the Japanese Dinner and Naga Dinner.
She’s also volunteered at heritage sites, including the Chua Chu Kang Jewish Cemetery and the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, assisting with tours and events that explore Singapore’s rich local history.
Participants should be dressed respectfully in smart casual (i.e. collared shirt, long pants and covered shoes). Sleeveless attire, shorts/miniskirts or sandals are strictly not allowed. Participants will be denied entry if they dress inappropriately.
Participants are required to provide their full name, NRIC, country of origin, and nationality for security checks before the tour.
Parking is not available in the Synagogue. Nearest public parking is available at One Oxley Rise Parking or Singapore Shopping Centre.
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
