Bar/Bat Mitzvah

A Bar or Bat Mitzvah is the milestone marking the transition from childhood to Jewish adulthood. At CBE, this momentous occasion typically takes place during Shabbat morning services. We hope these guidelines and resources will assist you when you are planning your child's simcha.

Planning your Child's Simcha

Timeline:

This is a roadmap to help support you during the time leading up to your child's simcha. Please make sure to complete the following forms:

• B'nai Mitzvah Questionnaire -- To be completed no less than 1 month prior to your simcha
• Kiddush Sponsorship Form -- To be completed no less than 2 months prior to your simcha
• Honors – Our Lifecycle Chairperson will contact you to help you assign honors for your child's Bar or Bat Mitzvah. 
• B'nai Mitzvah Project Form -- To be completed no less than 4 months prior to your simcha
• Friday Night Intention Form -- To be completed no less than 6 months prior to your simcha

Kiddush

Simcha families are expected to sponsor a kiddush lunch for the congregation and their guests immediately following Saturday morning services. These lunches can range from a simple meal of bagels, cream cheese, and salads to more substantive pasta or deli sandwiches. Families can either order a pre-set menu through CBE or work with a kosher caterer to develop a customized meal. Consult our kiddush sponsorship form for options. Questions? Reach out to Hannah Kraushaar for more information.

Parent Resources

• Sample Letter for Guests
• Sample Brochure
• Sample Parent Prayers (coming soon)
• Donations to the Tree of Life

Tips for Guests:

If this is your first time joining us for services at Congregation Beth Emeth, here are a few helpful things to know.

• If you are participating in the service, please be at CBE no later than 9:30 AM. Services begin at 9:00 AM and most honors take place beginning shortly after 9:30 AM. 
• All men need to wear a head covering and Jewish men need to wear a tallit. All individuals must wear a head covering when performing an honor.
• No electronic devices -- including cell phones and cameras -- can be used in the building on Shabbat. 
• Small quiet toys and books are welcome for children during the service -- and provided on the bookshelf at the far side of the sanctuary. However, coloring is not permitted on Shabbat.