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.
B’nai Vail works with an event coordinator to provide all of your needs including set-up and cleanup of the event.
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.
Adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah
Adults who missed this opportunity as a child are encouraged to join in classes each winter and summer season. Group B’nai Mitzvot or individual ceremonies may be arranged.
Mitzvah Projects
As part of their training, our Bar/Bat Mitzvah candidates participate in Tikkun Olam, or repair of the world. This is both a learning opportunity for the young adult, and a mitzvah to the community. We support our students through participation in their project or providing financial support. We welcome contributions to endorse this effort.