B’nei Mitzvah Honors Form

TORAH PASSING

We symbolically mark the passing down of Jewish heritage with the physical passing of the Torah from generation to generation. It is common to invite grandparents, or other elders in the family who play that role, to participate in this ritual. Family members need not be Jewish to participate; their support of raising your Jewish child is what is highlighted during this time.

ALIYOT & TORAH BLESSINGS

Most B’nei Mitzvah students prepare three sections of Torah text to chant during their service; the honor of reciting the blessings before and after each of those sections is an aliyah (plural aliyot). Aliyot 1 and 2 are open to any loved ones you wish to invite (whether family, friends, or parents), while the third aliyah is reserved for the B’nei Mitzvah student(s). The text and audio recordings of these blessings can be found online so everyone participating can practice in advance of the service.

LIFTING AND/OR DRESSING THE TORAH SCROLL

After all three aliyot have been chanted, the Torah scroll is lifted up for the congregation to briefly view and then dressed in its coverings before being returned to the ark. These honors are optional but warmly encouraged!

KIDDUSH & MOTZI

The blessings over juice and challah are recited at the end of the service. This is a great way to honor a small group of people who are close to you — perhaps siblings and cousins, or friends from Touro or camp.