Does Tikvat Israel offer Bar Mitzvah for the children?
Of course. Bar (Son) and Bat (Daughter) Mitzvah (Commandment) is encouraged for all children. This ceremony recognizes the time of life when a boy or girl becomes responsible to follow God and keep the commandments. Children begin to prepare for Bar or Bat Mitzvah in Shabbat School classes. Approximately one year prior to Bar or Bat Mitzvah, children are encouraged to take a special class to learn the traditional Jewish prayers of the synagogue and their Torah portion. Finally, to make Bar or Bat Mitzvah, the child must show achievements in four areas: personal spirituality, assistance in his or her family, service in the congregation, and service in the community.
