B'nai Mitzvah
Becoming B'nai Mitzvah at Congregation Beth Emeth
B'nai Mitzvah at Congregation Beth Emeth
Becoming B'nai Mitzvah at Congregation Beth Emeth is an exciting journey for children and their families. We make the process meaningful and fun!
Key Points
Date Assignment: B'nai Mitzvah dates are assigned at the end of Grade 5. If your child starts Religious School later, a date will still be available.
Preparation: About 9 - 12 months before the date, your child will start working with our clergy. B'nai Mitzvah classes for Grade 7 are held Wednesdays from 4:30 - 6:00 pm, alongside Grades 3-6 Religious School.
Support: Students prepare in a friendly group with Cantor Short, using easy-to-follow manuals and MP3 files for fluency.
Clergy Meetings: Students will meet with Rabbi Weitzman for their D'var Torah and Rabbi Shara for their Mitzvah Experience.
Ceremonies
Friday Evening: Your child will light Shabbat candles and recite the Kiddush and wine blessings.
Saturday Morning: They will lead the congregation in prayer and chant the Torah and Haftarah portions.
Our beautiful temple facilities are available for your celebration. Contact Kathy Golderman to secure the space.
Inclusivity
We use the term B’nai Mitzvah to include every child’s identity.
Our program is designed to help students achieve their full potential.
Background Information
Meaning: Bar/Bat/B'nai Mitzvah means "son/daughter/children of the commandment."
Significance: At 13, children become obligated to fulfill mitzvot, marking a change in status, not just an event.
History: Celebrating B'nai Mitzvah is a five-century-old tradition. It's now tied closely with Jewish education and community responsibility.
Ongoing Commitment: B’nai Mitzvah marks the beginning of a lifelong journey in Jewish education and righteous deeds.
Resources
Questions?
Contact Cantor Short at Cantor@CBEAlbany.org.
Congregation Beth Emeth is a Reform Jewish community in Albany, NY where you can find your place, find your people, and find fulfillment in Jewish life.