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B'nai Mitzvah Personal, meaningful experiences guide the way to Jewish adulthoodMazel tov!  A bar or bat mitzvah is one of the most rewarding experiences of a student's Jewish education — and a young person’s life. At Sherith Israel, our Religious School, rabbis and cantor, and synagogue staff seek to make the experience both substantial and stress-free. B’nai mitzvah aren’t about performance. Rather, they reflect a process of step-by-step learning and understanding of what it means to be a responsible Jewish adult. Preparation Students start preparing for b’nai mitzvah by learning about life cycle events in the early years of Religious School. Then in 3rd grade, they begin formal Hebrew studies in an encouraging environment. By 6th grade, they’ve learned the parts of the service and begin to study the melodies of the prayers. Special note: Members’ children enrolled in Jewish day schools begin attending Sherith Israel’s Religious School in 6th grade. All 6th graders and their parents take part in the Family B’nai Mitzvah class taught by Rabbi Larry Raphael. Family B’nai Mitzvah class To help the whole family prepare for a more meaningful simcha, Rabbi Larry Raphael and Rabbi Julie Saxe-Taller lead our Family B’nai Mitzvah class. Our 6th-grade students and their parents study Torah, learn about bar and bat mitzvah traditions and liturgy, and discuss what makes this is a meaningful event in their lives. Cantor Rita Glassman provides trope (chant melodies) and blessing information. This class helps get everyone on the same page and paves the way for a truly wonderful occasion. B’nai mitzvah information: Nancy Sheftel-Gomes, education director, 415.346.1720, x28, or nsgomes@sherithisrael.org.  Party facilitiesIn addition to our beautiful sanctuary in which b’nai mitzvah take place on Saturday mornings, Sherith Israel offers outstanding facilities in which to celebrate. Newman Hall seats up to 200 people for lunch or dinner and is served by a full kitchen. Bart Hall provides space for an oneg or smaller party. Rental information: Gabi Moskowitz, clergy assistant, 415.346.1720, x24, or gmoskowitz@sherithisrael.org. Scheduling To schedule the date of a bar or bat mitzvah, parents should speak with Rabbi Raphael when their child enters 4th grade. Scheduling information: Gabi Moskowitz, clergy assistant, 415.346.1720, x24, or gmoskowitz@sherithisrael.org. |
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