B Mitzvah: Coming of Age
B Mitzvah is a gender neutral term for Bar or Bat Mitzvah. A Kahal B’raira B Mitzvah is an opportunity for the young person to take ownership of their Jewish education and explore what it means to be Humanistic and Jewish.
A Kahal B'raira B mitzvah involves a process of self-exploration into what it means to be Jewish, and of how Jewish values are integrated into one’s life. Kahal B'raira means Community of Choice. Choice is a key element of a KB B Mitzvah - it can be whatever you, your child, and your family chooses. Our B Mitzvah coordinator will work with your family to create a B Mitzvah experience that is unique to your family!
How does our B Mitzvah program work?
- The student works with a mentor or tutor to complete an independent study and a community service project based on their interests.
- The student and family work together to create a meaningful ceremony, celebrating the young person's learning and accomplishments.
- Some ceremonies involve reading from the Torah, while others focus on the student’s art, music, creative writing, or other interests. All are wonderful – each in their own way!
- Families usually begin the B Mitzvah process about a year before their child's thirteenth birthday, many KB families choose to hold the ceremony when the young person is a little older. Adult members can also participate in the B Mitzvah program!
“My entire family was very moved by our son becoming a Bar Mitzvah. The fact that the Hebrew, the prayers, all of the rituals, incorporated tradition but had integrity of Humanistic Judaism was especially important to us.”
“My son is bi-racial, and his mother’s family is African-American and not Jewish. The theme of the service was being Black and Jewish. I was told by many that it was unforgettable.”
Curious about our B Mitzvah program? Ready to begin? Email Lidia at l.pruente@kahalbraira.org.