Bar Mitzvah
FAQ
(Theoretical)
Frequently Asked
Questions
I've never been to a Bar Mitzvah before, what can I expect?
You will be attending a Saturday morning Shabbat service at Congregation Beth Elohim, a Reform Congregation in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The service is mostly in English with Hebrew prayers interspersed. You will be directed by clergy when you are expected to sit or stand. There will be both prayers and songs.
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Being called to Torah as a Bar Mitzvah, whilst momentous, is seen as just one stage in Jewish life. The primary focus of the service is not the Bar/Bat Mitzvah per se but celebrating Shabbat (the sabbath.) The service will be attended by many other families and their children. Saturday Hebrew school students attend as part of their classes and the service has a family-friendly feel.
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How long is the Bar Mitzvah service?
The Shabbat/Bar Mitzvah Service is 2 hours long. If you are attending with small children or child-like adults, you can feel free to get up to stretch your legs or take a break. Note that the bulk of Samson's participation is during the latter half of the service.
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Where do I sit during the service?
You will be directed by an usher to a specific side of the temple. Samson will be sharing his Bar Mitzvah day with another young person. Yes, you will witness a Bar AND a Bat Mitzvah, double the fun! Children are encouraged to sit in the front of the Temple as a sort of Samson cheering section. Children will also be invited to join the processional as Samson carries the Torah around the Temple.
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Do I need to wear a Kippah/Yarmulke?
Only if you choose to. The ushers will be handing out special Samson-branded yarmulkes at the door. Spoiler alert, they are velvet! Both men and women are welcome to wear them, although they are primarily worn by men.
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Anything else I might not expect?
There is a portion of the service in which you throw candy at Samson. For real.
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How do we get to the party from the temple?
Watch this space for transportation details!
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Where do I park?
Please reach out to Sari via email to discuss parking logistics.