B’nei Mitzvah
As students near their Bar/Bat Mitzvah, they learn the meaning of this important life cycle event. They attend services more frequently and discuss what being a Jewish adult is all about. On the day of his or her Bar/Bat Mitzvah, each student chants Torah and Haftarah, leads the d’var, and presents part, or all, of the Shabbat morning service.
Throughout the service, Rabbi Jen (who knows each child very well) weaves in personal moments. She also tailors teachings and amount of English to match each family’s style. Before blessing each student, Rabbi Jen offers personal remarks about his or her gifts and strengths—making each Bar/Bat Mitzvah a truly meaningful experience.
Preparing for B’nei Mitzvah
Students start preparing two years ahead for this major life cycle event. Some of the steps include:
- Participate in 5 Shabbat morning family programs and 2 Sunday family workshops
- Volunteer 15 hours for a community mitzvah project and 3 hours at Kehillah Synagogue
- Meet with the rabbi to study the Torah portion and prepare the d’var
- Attend 18 morning Shabbat services
- Work with a Kehillah tutor
13 or older?
B’nei Mitzvah is not just for seventh graders. Anyone who starts a little later is welcome to be Bat/Bar Mitzvah. We can tailor a program just for you. Contact Ira, Interim Director of Lifelong Learning, to start the process.
ira@kehillahsynagogue.org or (919) 942-5817.
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Photograph by John Elkins
