Bar and Bat Mitzvah Preparation at MRT

At Monmouth Reform Temple, we view the Bar or Bat Mitzvah as a profound milestone in a Jewish life. It is a time to celebrate your child’s accomplishments and spiritual growth, and we are committed to ensuring they feel confident and well-prepared for their special day.

Tutoring with Jennifer Weiss

Approximately eight months before your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah, you will be contacted by Jennifer Weiss, our tutor. Jennifer will schedule five 30-minute one-on-one sessions with your child at MRT. If you feel your child would benefit from additional practice beyond these sessions, you are welcome to reach out to her directly to arrange more.

  • Jennifer will email you to coordinate the initial five sessions.
  • If you need to cancel a session, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. Jennifer will share her contact information with you at the first meeting.

Weekly Sessions with the Cantor

About six months before the Bar/Bat Mitzvah, our Cantor will begin weekly one-on-one sessions at MRT to teach your child their Torah and Haftarah portions.

Ongoing Preparation

Please ensure that your child:

  • Attends Religious School and Shabbat services regularly—especially during this year of preparation.
  • Practices Hebrew prayers at home. If you need printed copies they are all in your child’s Prayerbook.  Click here for recordings of the blessings. We are happy to provide more help – just email cantorclissold@monmouthreformtemple.org.

D’var Torah and Mitzvah Project

Throughout the process, your child will also meet individually with our Rabbi to prepare their D’var Torah and discuss their Mitzvah Project, which will be included in their speech.

Final Rehearsals

Two weeks before the Bar/Bat Mitzvah, your family will have two one-hour rehearsals on the Bima. During this time, please provide the Rabbi with a list of all individuals you wish to honor or include in the service.

We are honored to be part of this meaningful journey with your family and look forward to celebrating this joyful occasion together.