B’nai Mitzvah

For many Jewish people, their Bar, Bat, or B' Mitzvah is one of their most important life cycle events. Here at Temple Emanu-El, we help make it a special and truly meaningful event.

Our B'nai Mitzvah program is designed around each individual student. Children study in our Religious School in the three years preceding B'nai Mitzvah (exceptions are made for students studying at Epstein Hillel Academy or who have studied at other religious schools before moving to Temple Emanu-El). During this time, we have the opportunity to get to know each student, their learning styles, and their interests.

Students begin studying with their B'nai Mitzvah tutor six months before their service. Lessons focus on preparing students to lead the Congregation in worship and on reading the Torah, but significant time is also spent on finding meaning and building relationships. The B'nei Mitzvah service is seen as part of an ongoing process of learning and not as a performance. Our goal is to create a positive learning environment for students, so they will want to continue their Jewish education and maintain their connection to the Jewish community.

Dates are assigned up to three years in advance. If you are interested in learning more about the B'nai Mitzvah process, or about scheduling a  date, please contact Temple Educator Rabbi Allison Peiser at apeiser@emanu-el.org.