Mazal Tov.
Need a mohel?
Rabbi Mendel Zirkind is a certified mohel based in the Chicago area, available to travel throughout the Midwest and beyond. Trained to meet the highest religious and medical standards — with the warmth and care your family deserves.
Trained by Rabbi Yisrael Heller
Over a year of intensive training under one of the most respected mohelim in the NY tri-state area.
Halachah & medicine
Halachic precision paired with the latest medical considerations and best practices.
Family-first care
Available before and after the bris for any questions or concerns you may have.
A note from Rabbi Zirkind
A bris is more than a ceremony — it’s a family’s first simcha for their son.
Whether this is your first or your fifth, I’m here to walk you through every step — from preparing the room and assigning honors, to caring for the baby in the days that follow. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any question, at any hour.
Bris Checklist
Everything to prepare and bring on the day of the bris, plus the order of honors.
View checklistAfter Care
Step-by-step guidance for caring for your baby in the hours and days that follow.
Read aftercareAbout the Mohel
Rabbi Zirkind’s background, training, and approach to performing brisim.
Meet the mohelCommon questions
Before the bris
When does the bris take place?+
Traditionally on the eighth day of the baby’s life, in the morning. If there is any medical concern, the bris may be postponed — Rabbi Zirkind will guide you through halachic considerations together with your pediatrician.
How early should I reach out?+
As soon as possible — even before the baby is born. Early contact lets Rabbi Zirkind hold the date and answer questions calmly, without time pressure.
Where can the bris be held?+
At home, in shul, or at a hall. Rabbi Zirkind travels throughout Chicagoland and the Midwest, and can advise on what works best for your family.
What about pain management for the baby?+
Modern, halachically-approved techniques are used to minimize discomfort for the baby. Rabbi Zirkind will discuss the full process with you in advance.
Who needs to be there?+
Family and close friends as you choose. There are several honors (kibbudim) traditionally given — see the Bris Checklist page for the full list.
Ready to schedule the bris?
Reach out as soon as you’d like — early conversations help ensure everything goes smoothly on the day.