B'nei Mitzvah FAQ

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ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTIONS

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How will I find out what date my child has been given and what happens then?

Rabbi and Hazzan will assign your child’s B'nei Mitzvah date in the spring of the year they are in fourth grade. The date is chosen based on many factors, including, but not limited to: how many children are in the grade, when the Holidays fall and the time of year of your child’s Hebrew birthday. All children are assigned to a Saturday morning service unless there are extenuating circumstances which can be discussed with Rabbi or Hazzan. You will receive confirmation of your child’s assigned date by mail.

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Once assigned, can the date be changed? Who should I contact?
If the schedule permits, the date may be changed. You should notify either Rabbi or Hazzan immediately to request a change.

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If my child is assigned a shared date, how will I know?
It generally takes about 6 months after the dates are initially assigned for all of them to be finalized. After that time, you may request information about shared dates from the synagogue office.

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Are there Religious School attendance requirements for becoming B'nei Mitzvah?
Yes. All children are required to attend our religious school or an approved alternative in order to celebrate a B'nei Mitzvah at HERJC.

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Is there a financial obligation that must be met in order to celebrate a B'nei Mitzvah at HERJC? What does it cover, when will it be billed and when is it due?
The B'nei Mitzvah fee is currently $1,800.00. It is billed well in advance and can be paid in installments prior to the B'nei Mitzvah. Our synagogue’s Constitutional by-laws require that this fee must be fully paid prior to the B'nei Mitzvah date. This fee covers all B’nei Mitzvah lessons, and administration as well as Bimah flowers and the basic Kiddush reception following the service for members of the congregation and up to 125 of your guests. If you would like a more elaborate Kiddush or a private Kiddush luncheon for your guests, please call the synagogue office at 516 599-2634 or email contactus@herjc.org for information.

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What else can I do to share my Simcha with the congregation?
One permanent way to share your joy with the community is to purchase a Simcha leaf, Apple or Rock outside the Sanctuary to honor your child. You can reserve a space for any of these items now and for other future Simchas as well with a nonrefundable deposit which will be applied to the cost of the item. All Simcha contributions are completely tax deductable. For more information, please contact the HERJC office at 516-599-2634 or contactus@herjc.org.

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Is picture taking permitted at the B'nei Mitzvah?
In keeping with Jewish law, photography and videography are completely prohibited on synagogue grounds throughout Shabbat. Families may arrange to take pictures on the Bimah during the week prior to or following their Simcha by contacting Hazzan. These arrangements must be made in advance.