Zichron Yaakov, Binyamina and Caesarea are an area Rabbi David Mordecai knows well. He built the Sulam Yaakov community in Zichron Yaakov and served as its rabbi. Today he marries couples all over Israel, and the Carmel coast is one of those places.
A rabbi who once led a local community
As a community rabbi he stood beside families at happy moments and at life events. From that experience he brings attention to the small things under the chuppah: which relative deserves a place of honor, which custom matters to Grandpa, and how to fit it all into one ceremony that does not drag on. His full background is on the Rabbi David Mordecai page.
Vineyards, gardens and the sea
Zichron Yaakov and Binyamina are known for their vineyards and wineries, and Caesarea for its beach and antiquities. That is why couples come here from all over Israel even if they do not live nearby. For a chuppah in a vineyard or garden, check the ground, the shade and the distance between the ceremony and the reception in advance. For a chuppah facing the sea, check the wind direction and the sound of the waves, and decide where the witnesses stand so everyone can hear.
Small weddings are common here too, in a home courtyard or a family garden. The ceremony adapts to the size of the event: in front of a few dozen guests it is intimate, and at a large celebration it becomes more festive.
A Friday midday wedding
Friday midday weddings are popular in this area. The rabbi officiates on Fridays, and the chuppah time is planned so the ceremony and the party end before Shabbat comes in. Read more in Friday weddings and halacha.
Equality under the chuppah
In the rabbi’s ceremony both partners take an active part: both can say the words of kiddushin and give a ring, and both sign the ketubah. To see what such a ketubah looks like, visit the egalitarian ketubah. And remember that the ceremony is not recognized by the Rabbinate or the state; couples who want registration combine it with a civil marriage.
Frequently Asked Questions about weddings in Zichron Yaakov and the area
Is he still the rabbi of the community in Zichron Yaakov?
No. He built the Sulam Yaakov community and served as its rabbi in the past. Today he marries couples throughout Israel.
Can we have a chuppah on the beach in Caesarea?
Yes. A chuppah facing the sea is possible in coordination with the venue, with suitable sound and attention to the wind.
Does the ceremony suit a small wedding at home?
Yes. The ceremony is built around your event, and at a small wedding every guest can join in the blessings and the singing.
Can a kohen and a divorcee marry with the rabbi in Zichron Yaakov?
Yes. The rabbi marries a kohen and a divorcee, and also a kohen and a convert. Such couples cannot marry through the Rabbinate, and the rabbi’s ceremony is not recognized by the Rabbinate or the state. Couples who also want registration add a civil marriage, as explained in our guide to civil marriage in Israel.
Dreaming of a chuppah in a vineyard, a garden or by the sea? Get in touch or dial +972 54 5603603. More about the service is on Reform rabbi for weddings, and information about other regions is on all the regions he covers.
Mazal tov, and l’chaim to the first glass of wine!