The Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony is an occasion of great pride and joy. It is preceeded by extensive preparation on the part of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah ("son/daughter of the commandments").

With parent, teachers, Rabbis, and student working together, the journey successfully leads to the day when family and friends celebrate as this youngster is called to the bimah.

Scheduling the Ceremony

Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a status achieved by a Jewish boy when he reaches thirteen years and one day, and by a girl when she reaches twelve years and one day. As much as possible, we try to schedule a student's ceremony to take place shortly after that date (dates are arranged 1-2 years in advance). We work closely with the family to determine a day that works for all concerned. Requests for specific dates should be directed to the Rabbi.

Preparation & Requirements

• It is expected that the student has satisfactorily completed approximately four or more years of Judaic and Hebrew studies.

• Six to nine months prior to the ceremony, the student will enter the Bar/Bat Mitzvah class. At that time, Rabbi will meet with the parents, who will receive a packet of detailed information. Students will initially work as a group with the Rabbi. As they progress, each student will study individually with the Rabbi on a weekly basis. The student will focus on learning the blessings and prayers of the service, studying the parasha (Torah portion) in detail and writing a report, reading the portion in Hebrew and translating it, learning cantillation (chanting), reading the Haftarah selection, and preparing a speech reflecting his/her studies. As the special day approaches, the ceremony is geared to the individual abilities and needs of the youngster.

• Students are expected to attend Shabbat services at least twice a month, and to complete a Mitzvah Project. Students also have the opportunity to engage in additional study by completing the Thirteen Mitzvot project.

Relationship of Bar/Bat Mitzvah to Confirmation

Unlike the individual ceremony of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Confirmation is a group ceremony that occurs at the end of tenth grade. Bar/Bat Mitzvah is in no way to be considered a graduation. By having a Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony, the student takes on the Mitzvot of Judaism. Study is an important Mitzvah. By participating in a Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony, the student assumes the moral commitment to continue his/her formal Jewish education.

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