Initiation to Adulthood, Bar Bat Mitzvah

A main element of pastoral work is accompanying families in significant moments of transition. Life cycle events are the time and place when the community acknowledges the shift happening in one’s life—becoming a parent, an adult, a new family, constructing a new home, and finally, departing from a beloved one.

All rituals are based on Hebrew Scriptures and traditions, blended with local traditions and the wishes of the family. Thus, each such ceremony is special and singular.

All spiritual traditions celebrate the transformation from childhood to adulthood in a variety of ceremonies. The Jewish way demands the youngsters manifest their ability to read from the scriptures and lead the congregation in prayer. This is a manifestation of the emphasis on education that was retained by Jews in all generations.

Rabbi Sa’ar offers here two tracks, for individuals and for groups around the age of 12–13. The first is oriented toward the family, the second toward the communal institution—a school, a youth club, a church group, and so on. The process includes preparation and studies leading up to the ceremony. The exact content, as well as the extent of Hebrew usage, is decided in dialogue with the family or the institution.

Make a Booking