PREVIOUS |  NEXT

B'nai Mitzvah - page 6

The Simcha Meal
Volunteering in the Kitchen: The synagogue Kitchen Committee, comprised of volunteers, handles all aspects of the food preparation, set-up and clean-up. To make this work, one adult from the bar or bat mitzvah family is asked to volunteer to help the committee to prepare a Shabbat Kiddush at least four times (or six times if the family is sponsoring a sit-down luncheon) either before or after their event. About six months before your event, a member of the committee will contact you to schedule your volunteer time.

On the dates you have agreed on, arrive at the synagogue at 9:30 a.m. Kiddush preparation typically takes between one and two hours. You are also responsible for helping to clean up after the Kiddush. If, for some reason, you cannot make it on one of the dates you have set, be sure to let the Kiddush coordinator know as soon as possible so that a replacement can be identified.

The Bar or Bat Mitzvah Kiddush: Typically, the family sponsors the Kiddush after the service and a range of options are available.

About three months before your event, contact the Kitchen Committee chair to discuss Kiddush options. Then, 2-4 weeks before the event, you will be asked to provide an estimate of the number of guests attending, including congregation members you have invited and children over 5 years of age, so that the proper amount of food can be purchased.

If you are also planning an evening party, you can reserve the synagogue social hall. Contact the synagogue office for details.

Other Requirements and Expectations: The simcha is a religious event. As such, the food should be kosher, and so should the atmosphere. Modesty and restraint are hallmarks of Jewish behavior. Also, using cell phones, taking pictures, autographing a guest book or souvenir posters, handling money, and lighting candles are prohibited on Shabbat. Please make sure that your guests are informed of these synagogue rules. Tikvat Israel permits music on Shabbat, in accordance with synagogue rules but please speak with the Rabbi BEFORE signing any contract with a performer or group if your festivities are to take place during Shabbat.