Students preparing to become Bar and Bat Mitzvah are trained through an individualized program of instruction to lead Shabbat worship services and to chant from the Torah and Haftarah.

Students are instructed individually by Cantor Nitzah Amit Shamah and our B'nei Mitzvah staff. Preparation begins approximately 8-10 months before the Shabbat service when the student becomes a Bar/Bat Mitzvah (excluding vacations) and training is in addition to regular religious school classes. Our B'nei Mitzvah students conduct the Saturday morning Shabbat service, chant Torah, Haftarah and present a D'var Torah.

By becoming Bar/Bat Mitzvah, our young people make a public commitment to continue their Jewish education and proclaim their understanding that becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a milestone, but not a goal in itself. Students are strongly encouraged to continue their Jewish education towards Confirmation and Post Confirmation Classes in our upper school.

At Temple Sinai, attendance in our Religious School program must start no later than the 3rd grade and children must be 13 years old before the Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony.

Shabbat service attendance

During the six months prior to your child leading Shabbat services and becoming a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, students are asked to attend at least six Friday evening or Saturday morning worship services. We ask for your cooperation and assistance in fulfilling this important requirement. We encourage you to attend these and other worship services as a family, together with your child. Our experience shows that families who are familiar with worship services and are comfortable in the setting of our sanctuary enjoy a more complete and meaningful experience.