Our B'nei Mitzvah Program helps prepare young Temple members for the privileges and responsibilities of Jewish adulthood.
Well before seventh graders chant their Torah or haftarah portions before our congregation, the program, under the direction of Cantor Don Gurney, readies candidates and their families with spiritual and practical guidance and support.
To participate, students attend our day school,
Brawerman Elementary, or our religious school, the
Center for Learning and Engagement, for at least three years prior to and through their bar or bat mitzvah date. As they approach
seventh grade, they begin a yearlong series of meetings with our clergy to cover every detail. Questions and discussion are encouraged, whether the topic is
tikkun olam project requirements, timelines and tutoring, or
aliyot honors,
divrei Torah and strategies for success.
At the culmination of the process, each proud bar or bat mitzvah has the honor of helping lead regular congregational Shabbat morning worship services at the Temple or the Irmas Campus.
For more information about the B'nei Mitzvah Program, please contact Cantor Don Gurney or his assistant Nancy Daum in the Cantor's office at (213) 388-2401 ext. 550 or cantorsoffice@wbtla.org.
