Many families both here in Europe as well as in the US and Canada were forced to cancel their Simcha. Travel restrictions, fear of becoming “stuck” for days or weeks on a cruise ship or in a foreign hotel, and general worries about the health of special guests such as grandparents and older relatives, not to mention the general prohibition of large gatherings has created “Bar/Bat Mitzvah Balagan” for so many.
Regarding the Torah reading, not to worry. In our synagogue, we observe the Sephardic tradition of reciting a special blessing when a portion of the Torah is read which does not correspond to the weekly parsha. This blessing, which is referred to as a study blessing, allows for ANY PART OF THE TORAH TO BE READ ON ANY GIVEN DAY.
What this means for your son or daughter is that they need not learn another set of verses because their Bar/Bat Mitzvah date has changed. They can read the original verses as planned.
In addition, we are able to offer families a virtual connection from our synagogue to the homes of your families and friends so that everyone, especially grandparents can attend and participate.
See the links below to learn more about our Bar and Bat Mitzvah programs in Italy and our program scheduled for June 2021 in Greece. In addition to our regular program at the Rhodes synagogue, we offer a special preparation and ceremony for students with special needs.
Contact me for details – Email
