On the Shabbat of the week before the wedding the Chatan is called to the Torah (aufruff), to impress upon the couple the duty to look to the Torah as their guide in married life. After his Aliyah (going up to the Torah), the congregation showers him with raisins and nuts, symbolic of their wishes for a sweet and fruitful marriage blessed with many children. The rejoicing over the coming marriage formally begins then, with a reception (Kiddush) after services, hosted by his family. To prepare himself for one of the most important moment in his life, the Chatan (groom) visit the Mikveh (ritual bath) along with some men and afterwards attend a male only party with friends. Meanwhile, on the same Shabbat, the Kallah's family and friends arrange a party (oyfruf) for her, expressing their same wishes for her. The guests honor her with stories about their friendship and thoughts about her upcoming marriage. The brides and converts also go to the Mikveh for the first time just before the wedding for ceremonial immersion and purification. A small party for the women in the family usually follows the bride's visit to the Mikveh. After she has visited the Mikveh, a traditional bride will not see or speak to her fiancée until the actual wedding ceremony, which can be up to a week. This custom has helped many Jewish brides avoid the pre-wedding friction that can occur with their grooms and is also believed to bring good luck to the marriage.