B'nai Mizvah
Becoming B’nai Mitzvah is a significant and sacred milestone in a young person’s Jewish life. At Temple Beth-El, we guide each student and their family through a personalized journey of learning, growth, and spiritual connection.
With the support of our clergy, educators, and community, students deepen their understanding of Jewish tradition, develop leadership skills, and take their place in our congregation as responsible and engaged Jewish adults.
We are proud to celebrate this meaningful step with you and your family.
B'nai Mitzvah
×‘× ×™ מצוה
Meaning “children of the commandment” and is the plural form used to refer to multiple individuals—of any gender—who have reached the age of Jewish responsibility
Eligibility
At Temple Beth-El, students typically celebrate becoming B’nai Mitzvah at age 13 or later, marking their transition into Jewish adulthood and responsibility. To be eligible, families must be members in good standing, and students must be enrolled in our religious school or an approved Jewish educational program for at least two years prior to their B’nai Mitzvah date. Preparation includes participation in worship services, family education events, and regular meetings with clergy and tutors. We are dedicated to creating a meaningful and personalized B’nai Mitzvah experience for every student and their family.
To start your B'nai Mitzvah journey, please email our Events Experience Coordinator Ariel Rosen at arosen@beth-elsa.org or call 210-733-9135 Ext.107
Timeline
Three Years in Advance - B’nai mitzvah date is assigned.
One Year in Advance - Cantor Ettinger evaluates student in class
Nine Months Prior - Student and parents/guardians begin meeting with each member of the clergy to begin work on their Torah portion, d'var Torah, and prophetic perspective
Eight Months Prior - Student begins weekly tutoring with Cantor Ettinger
Six Months Prior - Student begins working with Hebrew tutor Hagit Lifshitz
Three Months Prior - Family completes honors form online
Ten Days Prior - 1st Rehearsal with Cantor Ettinger
Two Days Prior - 2nd Rehearsal with Cantor Ettinger and Temple Accompanist
Friday of Bar/Bat Mitzvah - Student meets with Temple accompanist prior to services
Saturday of Bar/Bat Mitzvah - Photo opportunity with clergy
Room Rentals
Celebrate in Style at Temple Beth-El! Looking for the perfect place to host your B'nai Mitzvah celebration? Temple Beth-El offers a variety of beautiful and versatile event spaces available for rental. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a lively party, our facilities provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere to continue the joy of this special milestone. Let us help you create meaningful memories—right here at the heart of your Jewish community.
Resources
All of the photos on this webpage were taken by Chantel Nasits at HorseDog Productions. She is our preferred Event Photographer.