B’nai Mitzvah Overview

At Temple Israel, becoming b’nai mitzvah is not just about leading a service, it is about entering into Jewish adulthood and preparing for a life of mitzvah that will continue beyond this special day. Through learning, acts of service, and building meaningful relationships with our clergy, educators, and lay leaders, our b’nai mitzvah students find their voice and their place within the millennia-long story of the Jewish people. We are honored to share this special journey with you and your family.

The process of becoming b’nai mitzvah starts as soon as your child begins their Jewish education. The earlier they engage with their Jewish community, the longer they have to gain important knowledge and skills that will build their confidence leading into the formal b’nai mitzvah training process beginning in 4th grade. 

We recognise that every child’s path is different and are committed to shaping a meaningful, accessible, and enriching experience for future b’nai mitzvah and their families. 

Please note that: 

• B’nai mitzvah are only open to members of Temple Israel
• To become b’nai mitzvah, students must be enrolled in the Wendy and Avron Fogelman Religious School or other approved Jewish learning experience such as attending a Jewish day school
• Students are required to have at least two years of participation in our religious education before starting the b’nai mitzvah process. Students who join the Wendy and Avron Fogelman Religious School with no previous education later than 3rd grade will require additional tutoring in Hebrew and independent work in content that was covered.
• After beginning our formal training process, students are encouraged to attend services as often as possible to become familiar with prayers and melodies.

The formal training process begins one year prior to the date of the b’nai mitzvah service and includes:

• Weekly 30-minute tutoring sessions on prayers and Torah/Haftarah readings
• D’var Torah Coaching with lay leaders and clergy
• An individualized mitzvah project of the student’s choosing

Questions

If you have any questions, please reach out to Rabbi Ross (rabbiross@timemphis.org) or our B’nai Mitzvah Coordinator, Karleigh Ring (karleighr@timemphis.org). 

We can’t wait to meet you! Mazel Tov!