Inviting to a Bris

What simcha can I not use the term “invite” to but rather just inform my wanted guests when it will take place?

Shalom!

Thank you for your question!

The custom of "informing" and not "inviting" is generally reserved for a Bris.

The idea is based on a passage in the Talmud which teaches that one who does not attend a celebratory meal (“seudas mitzva”), that one was invited to, deserves to be excommunicated. By only “informing” people of the bris and not “inviting” them to the bris will ensure that those who do not attend will be excommunicated. Even a mail sent to many people would be considered as a personal invitation, therefore the best would be that one should write "I would like to let you know...."

However, even if one said or wrote, “we invite you to the bris,” there is no obligation to go. The prohibition is only when someone is present at the meal and does not eat.  Even if one came to the bris he may leave before the meals begins and is not obligated to participate in the meal. 

There is some discussion whether the penalty of "excommunication" is to be taken literally or if it is simply intended to convey the importance of attending seudat mitzva. Nowadays, excommunication is rarely practiced, certainly not for not attending a seudas mitzva. 

 Pesachim 113b,  Rema, YD 265:12; Pitchei Teshuva, YD 265:18;  Aruch Hashulchan, YD 265:37.