Question: What ideas are there for homemade, meaningful Bat Mitzvah services?
I am looking for samples of "homemade" Bat Mitzvah services. I want to create a meaningful, family involved service. Any suggestions how to research service samples?
Answer: I think this is a wonderful question. I wish girls would take their Bas Mitzvah more seriously. I am thrilled to have a chance to share with you what I have learned.
There is actually very little source in custom for a Bas Mitzvah event. Some people make a Kiddush in the synagogue, in which the community is invited to have a light lunch after prayer services.
In homes of the most dedicated Jews that I know, the Bas Mitzvah girl has a sleepover. The Bas Mitzvah girl gets to join her friends in making a project (fun) and she shares a Torah thought that she finds meaningful (holy stuff). It is an activity that promotes Kavod Bas Melech Pinima (the honor of the daughter of the King is internal). It is a way of allowing the Bas Mitzvah to share her dedication to the Torah with her friends and have a great time. Sometimes the father will also share a Torah thought, but then they kick him out so they can just have some good girlish fun. I expect to cry at my daughter's Bas Mitzvah, and them promptly to be kicked out so the girls can have more fun.
Another Bas Mitzvah idea I have seen succeed is having the Bas Mitzvah girl accept a specific mitzvah upon herself. I would suggest finding a way to do acts of kindness on a regular basis and Torah study.
Here are some books that I highly recommend:
Books by Gila Manolson
Jerusalem Jems
The Thinking Jewish Teenager's Guide to Life
The Bible for the Clueless But Curious
Lastly, I'd refer you to this amazing forum for teens called FrumTeens.com. It is geared towards religious teens, but they all ask your questions. The moderator is a world class scholar and a heck of a great guy. Enjoy.
Wishing you a hearty Mazal Tov,
Rabbi A. Page
