70 years after the “Typical” Bar/Bat Mitzvah age, these seniors are being called up to the Bimah for the first or second time.
In a time when antisemitism is everywhere, these seniors are showing just how committed they are to Judaism!
They are all part of the new Eight-Three Club at B’nai Torah Congregation. The group came together to study torah together in preparation for their Bar or Bat Mitzvahs. For some, this is their first time becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah; and for others it is an opportunity to partake in the ritual for themselves. The group will be called to the bimah on March 25, 2023.
Penina Bredoff, Adult Education Coordinator at B’nai Torah Congregation, who created the Eight-Three Club, explains: “My dad, who is now 94, never was able to celebrate when he became a bar mitzvah because his father passed away just before he turned 13, so he asked to be called to the Torah when he turned 83 and it was a great celebration. That was my inspiration to begin this new tradition at B’nai Torah and I’m thrilled it seems to have brought lots of joy to our congregation. Besides, why should only 13 year old’s have all the fun?”
Sy Kirshner (83 years old, Boca Raton, will become a Bar Mitzvah for Second time): “The first time is when you go to Hebrew school and you are expected to get Bar Mitzvahed. The second time, it Is something you want to do deep down in your heart. When you are doing it the second time, it’s just for you. And, it’s been on my bucket list to become a second time Bar Mitzvah, so I am very excited. Just the honor to live to 83 is a wonderful experience. Everyone should have a second chance and this is the second chance I’ve always wanted. I am proud to stand here and show my children, and children’s children who will be here, how wonderful it is to be a Jew and to celebrate something like this here again.”
Judy Friedman, 83, Boca Raton, who will become a Bat Mitzvah for 1st time. She grew up in an Orthodox home where girls didn’t get to become Bat Mitzvahs: “It’s a blessing to be here and called up to the Torah. It’s a Mitzvah not just for me but for all of those who are unable to be here. I’ve always felt important, but now I feel recognized.”
Joanne Shulman, 83, Boca Raton, who will be Bat Mitzvahed for second time: “I had a forward thinking Conservative rabbi who allowed me the whole experience when I was a young 13 year old girl. That was the start of my Jewish experience. It’s nice to be here at 83 to do it all over again.”
