Chabad NW Seattle Bar Mitzvah parent handbook
Dear Parents,
In Judaism, the Bar Mitzvah marks a most significant stage in the life of a young man. As he grows older, he will constantly reflect on this momentous occasion as a major part of his maturing process. It is this turning point at which a mere boy is suddenly transformed into a young Jewish adult as he feels the pride of being a full fledged member of the Jewish community. He identifies with his essence in a strong and positive manner and realizes he is an integral part of our beautiful tradition and rich heritage.
At Chabad, the Bar Mitzvah celebration is faithful to the beauty and authenticity of Jewish tradition and will serve to inspire a young man to constantly recognize his privilege and responsibility to God, his fellow human beings and himself.
THE 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. We meet with the family to discuss what you feel is best suited for your son.
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. ·
Active participation through community outreach and parental involvement. Through being involved in the community and showing commitment to your son and his journey, we teach our children what really matters. Making the Bar Mitzvah celebration an event shared by others in the community is a wonderful commitment. We ask that the Bar Mitzvah boy invites all his Hebrew School classmates and Jewish friends to his celebration which adds an important dimension to the experience
1.Preparations: The Bar Mitzvah package at Chabad NW Seattle is priced at $2,350. This fee covers the services of Rabbi Yoni as the officiant during the ceremony, as well as the acquisition of a standard pair of Kosher Tefillin/Tallit and private tutoring lessons. Should your family be in a position to contribute an additional donation in celebration of the Bar Mitzvah boy, we kindly invite you to do so. Your generosity will greatly assist Chabad in reaching our annual fundraising goal.
The Bar Mitzvah boy will receive one-on-one tutoring sessions with Rabbi Yoni.
Each session is on average 30 minutes long. Average sessions necessary are approx 15 times or more. The Tefillin should be brought to all lessons. A Tallit 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 must attend Shabbat morning services at Chabad a total of 3 times within the 6 months prior to the Bar Mitzvah.
3. Candy throwing after reading Soft candies are tossed at the Bar Mitzvah boy after he has been called to the Torah. This custom signifies our wish for the child to be showered with sweetness and Mazal throughout his life. Rabbi Yoni will direct you to the most appropriate candies.
4. Mechitzah Should the service include the Torah being brought out of the ark, it is tradition that out of deep respect for the Torah a partition for the service between women and men is necessary. Please be sure to discuss these details with the Rabbi.
5. Catering All catering done at a Chabad NW Seattle service must be certifiably kosher. This means that Rabbi Yoni must ok the caterer chosen to make sure it complies with our standards in kashrut.
6. Photography Pictures and video during the service is welcomed and encouraged when held on a weekday. Out of respect for the Shabbat however, no pictures can to be taken during the service held on Friday night or Saturday.