To help seventh grade make students appreciate the bar mitzvah time period that they are currently experiencing and to encourage students to consider how they can assume the responsibilities associated with becoming a bar mitzvah, seventh grade students had an enriching week of bar mitzvah programming.
Students kicked off the week with a trip to Brooklyn and a visit to Shatnez testers of America where students learned about the mitzvah of Shatnez and heard first hand from a professional Shatnez tester about the tricks of the trade when it comes to inspecting a garment for Shatnez. Next, students had an unbelievable visit to Rabbi Yaakov Michael, one of the best “batim machers” (tefillin makers) in the world. Rabbi Michael mesmerized students as he showed them the process of making tefillin, starting from the hide all the way to the finished product. Students saw his incredible machinery used to make the tefillin square, were able to practice making the shin of the tefillin as professionals do, and saw his high tech computer tefillin checking system.
Students were treated to lunch and enjoyed a stop at Eichler’s, the largest seforim and Judaica store in the world. Their trip ended with mincha at the famous Landau’s “minyan factory” where students were amazed to see the number of minyanim that take place there daily.
On Wednesday, students were fortunate to participate in a “round robin” of sessions led by parents from our community who encouraged students to consider their role as עוסקים בצרכי צבור, those who involve themselves with the community. Mr. Keith Mendelson discussed the role of the chazzan, Mr. Mitch Cohen discussed the role of the gabbai, Mr. Avi Laub discussed the opportunities that Bnei Mitzvah have to do chessed, and Mr. Jonathan Teitelbaum taught students how to find time for mincha and learning by “making time.” The school was so fortunate to have a panel of parents who spoke so passionately about topics very close to their hearts as their messages truly penetrated the hearts of the students.
On Thursday students enjoyed a Torah Live program that introduced them to a bar mitzvah boy named Josh who was grappling with making meaning of this milestone. Students went on a journey with Josh and his grandfather’s siddur as they contemplated what it means to be a bar mitzvah and what our mission in the world really is.
Students capped off their week of programming with inspiring words from Rabbi Chaim Marcus of Springfield.
This meaningful week gave students much to think about as they continue on their journey through this important stage of life and that they will walk away better equipped to be full-fledged members of Klal Yisrael.
