Sandak. This is the most honored role. The Sandak holds the baby while the brit is performed. The Sandak should be a Jew who can testify that the brit was performed in accordance with Jewish law. While traditionally, the Sandak is a male, there is no reason a woman cannot be a Sandak. The high esteem in which the Sandak is held is manifested by a position of honor standing next to the chair of Elijah. Traditionally, this role is given to a grandfather. In some communities it is customary to give the rabbi this honor. And some suggest that the father of the child should himself be the Sandak, for since the mitzvah to circumcise the child is incumbent upon him, he should assist in the ceremony in every way possible. This is the custom in many Sephardic communities.  Today, however, there is no restriction on the gender of the Sandek.

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Kvatter (male) and Kvatterin (female). This couple, where both roles can be filled by either gender, brings the baby into the room where the brit will take place. They are colloquially known as the godparents. It is not necessary to fill both roles.

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Candle lighter. Generally a relative or close friend.

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Readers. Parts of the ceremony need not be read by the mohel. If there are individuals whom you would like to read the naming ceremony (in either Hebrew or English), please let me know.

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If either the Kiddush cup or candlesticks have special significance, please let me know so that I can make reference to them at the brit.