Dear Parents,
Every Jewish child automatically becomes a Bar or Bat Mitzvah simply by reaching the age of maturity. However, many synagogues require that the child attend religious school for a minimum of 5 years for their inclusion in a Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony. For many families this is not feasible whether due to time constraints, finances or just the inability to transport a child to and from religious school. No Jewish child should be unable to have a ceremony that celebrates this important lifecycle event. Here is what I can provide:
- Instruction tailored to child’s abilities and interests with me or one of my excellent tutors
- Ideal for child with special needs (learning disabled, gifted)
- Convenient schedules arranged for busy parents and children
- Accommodates child involved in sports and performing arts
- Afternoons or evenings – at your convenience
- No distractions so excellent education in shorter time
- Lessons are not several times per week (may be less than one/week)
- Customized to alleviate stress for academically pressured children
- Convenient. No carpooling. At home
- Skype video lessons as an option for lower cost and convenience
- Your child is the sole Bar/Bat Mitzvah (not shared unless requested)
- At your caterer…home…my congregation – Chabad of Lamorinda or anywhere
- Ceremony & reception at same site – Convenient for guests
- Aliyah Honors designed for your family
- Child’s recitation, in Hebrew and English, according to child’s ability
- Non-competitive comfort for child with special needs or shyness
Bar mitzvah is Hebrew for “son of commandment.” When a Jewish boy turns 13, he has all the rights and obligations of a Jewish adult, including the commandments of the Torah. From that date, he will wear tefillin on a daily basis, participate in synagogue services and take his place in the Jewish community. This milestone—called a bar mitzvah—is often celebrated with a ceremony in synagogue, tefillin wearing, and parties. The celebrant may be called to the Torah, lead services, deliver a speech or otherwise demonstrate his newfound status.
THE CHABAD OF LAMORINDA PHILOSOPHY
· Personalized
We believe that no two children are the same nor are any two families the same. We therefore strive to personalize this event to make it most meaningful, enjoyable and inspiring one for your family. We celebrate each child's individual strengths by tailor-making each Bar Mitzvah to fit the unique needs of the child
· Meaningful and Relevant
Our goal is to instill in each child the meaning and relevance behind what it is they are doing, so the experience is engaging and relevant to their lives in today's modern world.
· Not just a ceremony, but about being Jewish
The Bar Mitzvah is much more than a ceremony, it is about who we are. Our focus is on experiencing the joy and depth of being Jewish. The ceremony is only one part of that. The training and preparation for the Bar Mitzvah reflects that as well. The child is taught the meaning of what it means to be Jewish and is given time to ask and reflect on his becoming a Bar Mitzvah with the Rabbis and teachers he studies with.
· A wholesome experience
It is not just about the destination. The journey should be meaningful and enjoyable as well. We want your child to always remember his Bar-Mitzvah and the training that preceded it, as a joyous and memorable learning experience.
Chabad of Lamorinda Bar Mitzvah Handbook
1. Lessons:
The cost for a Bar Mitzvah Lessons at Chabad of Lamorinda is $50.00 per lesson of 45 minutes.
The lessons can take place either at chabad in Lafayette CA or at your home.
The Bar Mitzvah boy will receive one-on-one tutoring sessions with Rabbi Yisroel Labkowski. The sessions will include learning the chant of the Torah and/or Haftarah, as well as its blessings. It will also include learning the section of the prayer service, instruction on how to put on Tefillin and learning the meaning of a Bar Mitzvah.
Average sessions necessary are approx 10 times or more. The Tefillin should be brought to all lessons.
A Tallit and Tefilin is the responsibility of the Bar Mitzvah family and can be ordered through Chabad.
2. Shabbat Attendance
It is important the that Bar Mitzvah boy and his family become familiar with and feel comfortable in a synagogue setting in preparation for the Bar Mitzvah. This is part of the investment you will be making for your son’s future. This will encourage him to be a connected and committed member of the Jewish community. With this in mind your son shouldattend Shabbat morning services at Chabad of Lamorinda a total of 6 times within the 6 months prior to the Bar Mitzvah.
For more info and to set it up please contact us at 925-384-7242 or click here