INTRODUCTION

Is it hard to believe that your child will soon become a Bar or Bat Mitzvah?  You might as well brace yourself now.  That little boy or girl that just yesterday was strapped into a car seat is today getting all set for adolescence. Our children begin to go through some dramatic changes, physically and emotionally, at twelve and thirteen years of age.  The rabbis were wise in choosing this age as the proper time for becoming Bar and Bat Mitzvah.

Midway Jewish Center wants this time in your life and in that of your child’s life to be one of growth, excitement, and positive learning.  In Jewish tradition, we commit ourselves to life-long learning.  All Jewish adults, even rabbis, cantors, and educators are obligated to study throughout their lives.  It only stands to reason that the occasion of a Bar and Bat Mitzvah will be a learning experience for the entire family.  Becoming a Bar and Bat Mitzvah is not so much what happens on a single special Shabbat.  It is really a process that began as early as your child’s brit or baby naming.

In the back of this booklet is a glossary.  Just about every Hebrew term used in this booklet is there defined.  You will find many other terms defined to help you understand Judaism even better.  Enjoy the reading and Mazal Tov!