Bar/Bat Mitzvah

Bar and Bat Mitzvot represent perhaps the most important landmark in a Jewish person’s religious development. The words come from Aramaic, and mean son or daughter of the commandments.

At the age of 13, a Jewish child is welcomed into the adult Jewish community: they can be called to the Torah and participate in other religious rituals that are reserved for adults. At the same time the Bar or Bat Mitzvah assumes the religious obligations of an adult, as expressed and honored in our tradition. 

A Bar or Bat Mitzvah is always a joyous celebration, and at Temple Sinai the entire family participates while their friends and the congregation share their happiness. As with any other service, everyone is welcome. 

Bar and Bat Mitzvah lessons are usually one-on-one sessions with either the Rabbi or the Cantor. Preparation can take a year or more. Families are encouraged to begin planning early in order to reserve a date and arrange a lesson schedule.

Temple Sinai also invites adults who, for whatever reason, would like to have their own Bar or Bat Mitzvah. There is more information here.