|
|
Welcome to the Congregation Serving
the communities of Fairfield County and beyond since 1967 |
 |  | |
|
Anne Preis on | Rhona and Alan Smith with their son, Daniel, at his Bar Mitzvah |
In keeping with Jewish tradition, the Congregation prepares its students for bar and bat mitzvah, the ceremony marking the transition from childhood to young adulthood. Sixth- and seventh-graders in our Sunday School are immersed in a two-year program of activities and projects that help them explore what it means to be a Humanistic Jew. Among the recommended activities are compiling a family history, sampling Jewish culture, attending Humanistic and traditional bar/bat mitzvah ceremonies, and examining their values and beliefs. In the tradition of “Doing Mitzvot” (good deeds), there is also a significant community service requirement.
Unlike traditional bar/bat mitzvah services, a Humanistic ceremony is a unique event. The centerpiece is a presentation given by the student on a topic of Jewish interest that he or she has chosen, researched and prepared under the guidance of a CHJ member who serves as a Mentor. Recent topics presented by b’nai mitzvah candidates include Jewish music, the Masada, and the rescue of Danish Jews during the Holocaust.
The rest of the service is an original compilation of readings, music and traditions created by the family with the assistance of Congregation resources and expertise. The result is always a moving ceremony with warmth and meaning for both the family and the Congregation. The entire Congregation is invited to attend, and CHJ provides a Kiddush of wine, juice, challah and honeycake.
To be eligible for a CHJ-sponsored bar/bat mitzvah a student must have attended our Sunday School for at least two years immediately preceding the event. All school and b’nai mitzvah requirements must be met. There is a one-time fee to cover b’nai mitzvah preparations.
For more information, email Rochelle Green, B’nai Mitzvah Coordinator
