B’ Mitzvah
Ben and Bernice Fiterman B’ Mitzvah Program
Beth El’s Fiterman B’ Mitzvah program seeks to raise learners knowledgeable of, inspired by, and committed to Jewish tradition, for that is truly what “bar/bat/b’ mitzvah” means. In the course of the program, students and their families become well versed in synagogue services and form deep ties to each other and to our community. Click here for additional description of the mission and goals of the program.
B’nai Mitzvah are typically celebrated on Shabbat morning at Beth El. We also offer alternative arrangements and provide training for learners celebrating in Israel. Learning takes place in our 5th-7th grade Shabbat morning program (TaRBuT) and on select Sunday mornings in the 6th and 7th grade years. Home practice is encouraged allows learners to progress with confidence. To put these b’ mitzvah studies in context, students are expected to either attend the Heilicher Minneapolis Jewish Day School (a full time Jewish day school) or our religious school (K-1st grade at Beth El on Shabbat morning; 2nd-8th grade at Talmud Torah on weekday afternoons and/or Sunday mornings).
Contact Information:
For further information and questions, please contact:
Rabbi Julie Schwarzwald, B’ Mitzvah Program & Ritual Director, at jschwarzwald@bethelsynagogue.org or 952.873.7316
Amy Godsey, B’ Mitzvah Program Assistant, at agodsey@bethelsynagogue.org or 952.873.7313
Program Information
Goals and Hopes of the Program
Torah
Students develop a love of Torah and see it as a never ending source of wisdom to lead their lives. They know how to chant Torah, study and teach Torah, and wear Torah (tefillin). But our greatest hope is that they learn to love and live Torah.
Avodah (Spirituality)
Students master life-long synagogue and home skills that form the foundation of a rich, spiritual life. They understand the mechanics and the meaning of these rituals. Rather than “performing” for an “audience,” b’ mitzvah use these spiritual tools to enrich their lives.
Mitzvot
Students understand that mitzvot are more than “good deeds” but rather a sacred responsibility that bring holiness to the world. After “trying on” 13 (or better, 18 mitzvot) over the course of their b’ mitzvah studies, students incorporate new mitzvot into their lives upon completion of the program.
Kehilah
Having participated regularly in services, Shabbat dinners, the annual retreat, etc., students and their families feel closer to the Beth El community. They become “regulars” in shul and participate actively in the life of Beth El and the broader Jewish community.