I will be happy to discuss with you the various honors that are given out at a Bris, and to whom it is most appropriate to give these various honors:
1. Sandek: A man who holds the child on his lap during the Bris. This is the biggest honor bestowed at the Bris, often reserved for a grandfather or great-grandfather. Many have the custom to appoint a different Sandek for each new son in the family.
2., 3. Kvatters (Godparents): A man and women who bring the child to the Bris. The mother gives the child to the godmother. Then the godmother brings the child to the godfather who in turn brings him into the room where the Bris will take place.
4.Elijah’s Chair: A man who places the child on the chair that is set up next to the Sandek’s chair. According the Jewish tradition, Elijah the prophet comes to every Bris. Therefore, we reserve a seat in his honor.
If desired, there are several other honors that can be added.
