Bar / Bat Mitzvah

At Temple Beth Am we recognize the significance of the Bar/Bat Mitzvah in the life of each Jewish child and family. It is in many ways a significant moment in the life cycle both for the young man or woman and his/her parents. As such, in our Bar/Bat Mitzvah program we strive to provide each child with the opportunity to discover and hone his or her own unique talents and interests, culminating with an individual ceremony reflecting each child's personal strengths. While it is best that a child's Jewish education begins in their early years, we at Temple Beth Am believe all Jewish adolescents should be able to celebrate their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. As each student nears age eleven, families will work with Rabbi Goldsmith to choose the date of their child's future Bar/Bat Mitzvah.  Then, six months prior to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah, students begin individualized instruction with our excellent Bar/Bat Mitzvah tutor to ensure that their preparation is complete! They are also strongly encouraged to participate in a Mitzvah Project of their choosing which focuses on their passions, providing great personal pride and satisfaction upon its completion.

Students work in conjunction with Rabbi Goldsmith, our Bar/Bat Mitzvah tutor, and our Hebrew School teachers to prepare for their simchah.  Our Ritual Director Ken Halpern works with each family to assign honors for the big day.  All work together to craft a meaningful celebration for the entire family.