B’nei Mitzvah

At its heart, becoming B’nei Mitzvah marks an important milestone in a young person’s life. Like many cultures, Judaism recognizes the transition from childhood toward greater responsibility through a meaningful ritual that celebrates growth, identity, and belonging. More than a ceremony or celebration, B’nei Mitzvah is an opportunity for our young people to deepen their connection to Jewish tradition, learning, and mitzvot as they continue on a lifelong journey of Jewish growth.
At Kol Ami, we believe a meaningful B’nei Mitzvah experience begins years before the service itself. Through Jewish learning, worship, holidays and rituals, acts of service, and relationships within our synagogue community, students develop the knowledge, confidence, and connection needed to take their next steps as engaged members of the Jewish people. Throughout this journey, we strive to help each student:

Develop a strong Jewish identity
Build lasting relationships within our synagogue community
Discover their place in the story of the Jewish people
Understand the meaning and purpose of our prayers
Deepen their knowledge of Jewish traditions, values, and practices
Embrace mitzvot as a way of living with purpose, compassion, and responsibility

Our hope is that every student leaves this experience not only prepared to lead a beautiful service, but also inspired to continue learning, growing, and participating in Jewish life for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Service Participation

Kol Ami B’nei Mitzvah services are joyful, meaningful, and personalized celebrations of each student’s journey. Students typically take on a significant leadership role by leading portions of the service, chanting Torah, sharing a personal d’var Torah, and reflecting on their mitzvah project. Families and loved ones are invited to participate through meaningful honors and special roles throughout the service.
When are B'nei Mitzvah services held?
When does the B'nei Mitzvah process begin?
Who will help my child prepare for his/her B'nei Mitzvah?
Can non-Jewish family members participate in the B'nei Mitzvah service?
Can I hold my celebration at Kol Ami?
What is available to my teen after their B’nei Mitzvah?

We hope every student will continue to grow their Jewish identity and deepen their connection to our community through our engaging teen programs, including continuing Religious School, The HUB, youth groups, the madrichim program, and many other opportunities to learn, lead, serve, and connect.

Questions? Contact Pam Pass, Religious School Director (914) 949-4717 x124.

Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program

Adult B'nai Mitzvah at Congregation Kol Ami

Every few years, we teach an Adult B’nei Mitzvah Cohort. This program is intended for Jewish adults who did not experience becoming B’nei Mitzvah in their younger years. Together, we study Jewish beliefs and practice, holidays and life cycle rituals, prayer, culture, and Hebrew. Our cohorts form lifelong bonds during this program, connecting over shared questions and curiosity. For more information on dates and times please contact the main office or one of our Clergy.

Learn more about our recent B’nei Mitzvah students and their journey.