B'nai Mitzvah
Becoming a B'nai Mitzvah
The ritual of becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah can truly be a transformative experience for a child, as well as for an family. It is the moment when we officially recognize that this child, who we have watched grow up and in many cases held in our arms as a little baby, will enter into the "adult" Jewish world. This ritual has become routine and has lost its meaning for so many. Reclaim and re-imagine this significant moment for your child with a Nafshenu Bar/Bat Mitzvah!
We teach our students that Jewish life can and should be bold, courageous, and transformative. Bar/Bat Mitzvah is an important step in this journey and an affirmation of their individual Jewish identity. Our students become Bat/Bat Mitzvah in the midst of our community during our Shabbat morning services and as a community, we celebrate with them as they begin the next stage of their life.
Preparation
Typically, B'nai Mitzvah training begins 8 months prior to the date of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Preparation includes:
- a comprehensive study of their Torah portion, including rabbinic commentaries and application to modern Jewish life, leading to writing of a D’var Torah (words of teaching);
- preparation of Torah and Haftarah portions for the B’nai Mitzvah, including the learning of trope (aka cantillation).
a service booklet
preparation and engagement in meaningful social justice work (mitzvah work)
- Individual Needs: Nafshenu is open to discussing specific needs of your child and we are happy to make accommodations for those who require them.