Congregation Torat El is committed to a Bnai Mitzvah process in which we help our youth become participating members of our Kehillah Kedosha, Holy Community. The process incorporates a rich program of education, community involvement/service, personal growth, and commitment to being a practicing member of the Jewish community. The actual Bar/Bat Mitzvah is an integral element of the entire process. The service itself is part of a shared opportunity for celebration among the B’nai Mitzvah, the family, friends and the Congregation.
B’nai Mitzvah are encouraged to be active participants in our congregation including leading portions of both the Erev Shabbat and Shabbat morning services on the Shabbat when he or she is called to the Torah as a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. The student’s expectations are: Haftarah with Brachot, some Torah reading, a Dvar Torah, Torah Service, Musaf, concluding prayers, Shabbat morning Kiddush, Friday night Kiddush, and selected Friday night prayers.
Each Bar / Bat Mitzvah student embarks on a Mitzvah project that is approved by the Rabbi. Project requirements will focus on a commitment to the community.
The policy of Congregation Torat El is to schedule Bar/Bat Mitzvah dates no earlier than the child’s 13th birthday based on the Hebrew date. Bar/Bat Mitzvah students are expected to continue their Religious School education at least through the 7th grade graduation.
Bnai Mitzvah lessons ar e an extension of the Religious School program. Individualized lessons will begin approximately one year prior to the scheduled Bar/Bat Mitzvah date. Lessons are 30 minutes long unless otherwise agreed. Approximately 4 weeks prior to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah, the 30 minute lessons will be replaced by ‘Bimah Lessons’ of at least 60 minutes in length.
Parents are encouraged to be present while the lesson is taking place. At home, parents should be as involved in the child’s preparation as possible.
If you have questions about the Bar/Bat Mitzvah program, please contact Ben Laskowitz at 732-531-4410, ext. 18, email: benlaskowitz@torat-el.org.