Mazal Tov! Becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah is an important milestone in a family’s life. It is also an important part of the celebrations that take place on Shabbat at Adath Jeshurun. We hope that you will have the greatest joy at your simha knowing your family is part of the larger congregational community that we foster here at Adath.
Fun fact: Did you know that Bar and Bat Mitzvah is not a verb? While you may have heard the phrase, “so-and-so was bar-mitzvahed” – Jewish tradition teaches that we “become Bar/Bat Mitzvah.” Why? It is a natural part of life that occurs when Jewish youth reach the age of 13. So, what’s the big deal? Why all the celebration?
Becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah holds real significance in a Jewish child’s development, both physically and religiously. It is a time for children to gain new knowledge, to be part of years of tradition, and to feel connected to Judaism and the Jewish community. Learning to read from the Torah, leading the congregation in prayer and writing and delivering a D’var Torah are true accomplishments. Participating in the service provides a sense of belonging; and being the focus of attention for that one day provides a sense of importance. Studying to become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah offers a growing awareness of Judaism and is an experience that is the stepping stone to building a positive, long-lasting bond with Jewish tradition and community.
Fun fact: Did you know that Bar and Bat Mitzvah is not a verb? While you may have heard the phrase, “so-and-so was bar-mitzvahed” – Jewish tradition teaches that we “become Bar/Bat Mitzvah.” Why? It is a natural part of life that occurs when Jewish youth reach the age of 13. So, what’s the big deal? Why all the celebration?
Becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah holds real significance in a Jewish child’s development, both physically and religiously. It is a time for children to gain new knowledge, to be part of years of tradition, and to feel connected to Judaism and the Jewish community. Learning to read from the Torah, leading the congregation in prayer and writing and delivering a D’var Torah are true accomplishments. Participating in the service provides a sense of belonging; and being the focus of attention for that one day provides a sense of importance. Studying to become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah offers a growing awareness of Judaism and is an experience that is the stepping stone to building a positive, long-lasting bond with Jewish tradition and community.
StudentsBelow are resources you can use to study your Torah and Haftarah, practice your service leading, prepare your D’var and more! resources
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ParentsThis is a big occasion in your lives as well! We strive to make the Bar/Bat Mitzvah process an accessible, transparent and meaningful experience for the whole family. To that end, we have a number of family meetings for 5, 6, and 7th grade parents throughout the process, and the clergy and staff is always available to answer questions or address concerns. Many answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions about Bar and Bat Mitzvah can be found in our Bar/Bat Mitzvah Manual, which you can download in full here, or browse some highlights below. FAQ's
Calendar of Family Meetings 2017-2019 Whom to Call for What? Bar/Bat Mitzvah Prep Timeline Secrets for Success Prayers for Parents and Family Members Tips for preparing your parent speech |
Kiddush SponsorshipAlthough your child’s bar/bat mitzvah may be a year or two away, we wish you mazal tov as your family begins to plan for this joyous and meaningful milestone. The entire Adath community takes pride as each of our b’nai mitzvah chant from the Torah and lead us in prayer. Participating in a bar/bat mitzvah Shabbat service at Adath is always a cherished reminder of the vibrancy of our tradition and our congregation. In honor of their child’s bar/bat mitzvah, each family sponsors that weekend’s Congregational Kiddush. The B’nai mitzvah planning materials that you may have already received includes the Kiddush information developed by the Adath Catering Committee. Our hope is that these new menu options will add to the festivity of your simcha, as the congregation comes together to join your family and guests in celebration. perpetuate Judaism, to enrich the lives of our members, to celebrate Conservative Judaism at its creative best, and to bring Jews closer to God. |