At B’nai Vail, we encourage all children to engage in training to become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. This is not a culmination, but part of the journey toward Jewish adulthood. Five primary areas of participation for a Bar/Bat Mitzvah at a Shabbat service include leading the Congregation in prayers, chanting from the Torah and reading the Haftarah in English; and offering an explanation of the week’s Torah portion. Additionally, Friday night participation the night before the Bar/Bat Mitzvah is required.
It is understood that children come with a diversity of needs and aptitudes, and the Bar/Bat Mitzvah training, requirements and experience can be modified to meet this range.
Goals of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program
- To provide a memorable, challenging and exciting Jewish experience for our children.
- To develop basic Jewish skills beginning in our Religious School including Hebrew reading, Torah reading, chanting of prayers and the interpretation of our ancient texts.
- To have children lead a worship service.
- To explore with students and families what it means to become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
- To include families as an integral part of the process and service.
A comprehensive Bar/Bat Mitzvah handbook is provided to families upon the commencement of Hebrew School. Adherence to the timeline and expectations is part of the B’nai Vail religious school program.