The transition into manhood is a powerful experience for the Children of Israel. At Bar Mitzvah, a Jewish man takes on the mantle of Torah and is accorded the holy privileges and deep responsibilities of adulthood under Jewish law.
With the initial wrapping of tefillin, a Bar Mitzvah binds himself to the ancient covenant between G-d and the Jewish people. Being called up to the Torah for his first Aliya, he literally rises up with the Torah and becomes a full-fledged member of the Congregation.
It is customary to celebrate the Bar Mitzvah with a joyous feast and family celebration. In order to make these important moments available to Russian Jewish immigrants of all ages, FREE sponsors the purchase of tefillin and arranges a traditional Bar Mitzvah Ceremony.
In addition, FREE offers classes and individual tutoring to help prepare for this auspicious time. The classes provide Hebrew skills and instruction on davenig (Prayer) from a traditional Siddur (Prayer Book), and how to properly perform the mitzvah of tefillin. In addition, the classes teach Jewish history and tradition, imparting pride, awareness, and a sense of responsibility toward the Jewish Nation. The learning process and the ceremony combine to leave a profound impact on the Bar Mitzvah boy, for the rest of his life.
In addition to the year-round Bar Mitzvah Program, during the summer, Camp FREE holds an annual Bar Mitzvah Ceremony for all boys who reach thirteen years of age. Counselors give campers special Bar Mitzvah lessons preparing the boys for their Aliya to the Torah.
718-467-0860 Ext. 118
education@friendsofrefugees.org
Cong. Friends of Refugees of Eastern Europe (F.R.E.E.) was founded in 1969 by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson.
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