September 2011 - April 2013

If you are a Beth Israel member who missed out on becoming Bar or Bat Mitzvah as a teen, or if you would like to deepen your knowledge and connection to Judaism, the Adult B’nai Mitzvah program is designed especially for you.  The program is divided into two parts:

First Year

Participants will attend three Shabbat morning programs: Torah study, Minyan, and a Bar or Bat Mitzvah service, in addition to an evening Learners Shabbat.  Students will also take Introduction to Judaism and/or Jewish Wisdom and the Aleph Bet.  Introduction to Judaism covers fundamental concepts of Jewish belief and practice and is taught by our clergy on Thursday nights. Jewish Wisdom introduces basic Hebrew and Judaica, and is presented by popular teacher Dr. Al Ray on Sunday mornings. If you’ve already taken Introduction to Judaism in the past two years, you may take it again at no cost, or take just the classes you have not had (a class listing will be provided to you.  Adult B’nai Mitzvah students are also encouraged to take JumpStart Hebrew.

Second Year

The second year of the program assumes some basic Hebrew skills. If you do not take Dr. Ray’s class the first year and need to learn Hebrew, you may enroll in the Hebrew class that will be taught by Helene Schlafman during the summer of 2012. In the fall of 2012 Helene will continue teaching Hebrew during part of each class session through much of the year. You will also study the chant of the Torah and Haftarah, liturgy, theology and Jewish thought with Rabbi Berk and Rabbi/Cantor Bernstein.

On Saturday morning, April 27, 2013, the congregation, friends and family will share in your joy as you take part in a beautiful and inspiring Shabbat service celebrating your Adult B’nai Mitzvah.

Instructors: Rabbi Michael Berk, Rabbi/Cantor Arlene Bernstein, Helene Schlafman
Fee: $225 (Beth Israel members only). Register and pay online. For more information contact Gail Malkus, 858 535-1111, ext. 3110.