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When & Where to
Celebrate Bar and Bat Mitzvah
Reform Perspective
by Rivka C. Berman
The synagogue/temple is a popular choice for
the services of the Bar and Bat Mitzvah. This choice is common, because the
temple is where the community
comes together to continue the traditions and mission of the Jewish people.
However,
theres more to Judaism than the temple. Judaism is not limited by walls.
Wherever Jews gather there is the potential for holiness. Hence, if you want to
be different, more creative, or have a sense of fun that needs expression, just
get ten adult Jews for
a minyan and a Torah, and host a bat mitzvah service anywhere. On a mountaintop
at Sun Rise, on the waterfront towards evening, or at the Kotel (Western Wall)
in Israel.
Set the Date
Traditionally, the Jewish date of birth was the day people celebrated their bar
and bat mitzvah. However, given the busy lives and hectic schedules of
family and friends, setting the date for the party and services must be done
with consideration.
So plan ahead. Synagogues dont want to be looked upon as bar mitzvah factories,
where kids come to celebrate their big day and never return again. Many have
instituted a year or two year education requirement as a prerequisite for a bat
mitzvah in their sanctuary.
Some synagogues are so popular that they begin setting bar mitzvah dates two or
three years in advance. To avoid battles for good dates in other
congregations, bat mitzvah times are randomly assigned. Doubling up for the
popular Saturday morning Shabbat service is not unusual either. Give your
synagogue a call now.
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Bar & Bat Mitzvah Service
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