A Bar or Bat Mitzvah is one who has reached the age of responsibility for the observance of the commandments (mitzvot) of the Torah. Though a young Jew is considered a responsible Jewish adult once he or she has turned the proper age, for centuries families have marked the young person’s new status with rituals at a prayer service. At Temple Sinai, Our young people study weekly in our religious school from second grade on, learning Hebrew and Jewish tradition.

Two years before that date, our students are expected to begin attending Shabbat services on a regular basis in order to become familiar with the flow of traditional prayer.

Ten to twelve months before the chosen date, the young person begins private lessons with the Rabbi/Cantor to learn the segments of the service he or she will lead. In addition, our B’nai Mitzvah students prepare a series of short speeches to be delivered at the service on their special day.

The joy of celebration continues following the service, when the entire congregation joins the celebrating family and their invited guests at the Kiddush, for Temple Sinai sees each Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration as a community simhah, an occasion for communal rejoicing.

Mazal tov on the birth of your daughter!  We at Temple Sinai would love to help you introduce her into the Jewish community through the official bestowing of a Jewish name.

in Europe, generally name their children after relatives who have passed away. Sefardi Jews – those whose roots are in the Middle East or North Africa, generally name their children after living relatives. The rabbi will be delighted to help figure out an appropriate Jewish name.

Traditionally a baby girl is named at a Torah reading shortly after her birth. The ceremony involves either one parent or both parents receiving an aliyah, the opportunity to recite the blessings over a segment of the Torah reading for that service. Immediately following that reading, the rabbi or cantor recites a prayer naming the child. The baby need not be present for the ceremony, although the occasion is certainly enhanced by her presence.

In recent years a second ritual for naming a baby girl, known as Zeved ha-Bat or Simhat Bat, has been developed. This ritual is often carried out in the family’s home and involves readings and prayers chosen by the parents for this special occasion, in consultation with the rabbi. Grandparents and other relatives and friends can participate in the ceremony as the parents and rabbi develop the service which will be unique for this newborn. Though this ritual requires some pre-planning, many families find the experience very meaningful. Consult with the rabbi for ideas.

Please call Temple Sinai for information:  845-343-1861

Please call Temple Sinai for information:  845-343-1861

When a death occurs, please contact us before contacting a funeral home or making arrangements on your own.

In the event of a death, we are prepared to provide all possible guidance and assistance to members of Temple Sinai.

Temple Sinai has a Chevra Kadisha to attend to all the pre-burial ritual requirements, and works primarily through Cornelius Dodd and Connell Funeral Home in Middletown.

Temple Sinai Cemetery • 2420 Route 302 • Circleville, NY 10919