How do I get a B’nai Mitzvah scheduled?
If you are new to Congregation Rodeph Shalom and would like to schedule your child a B’nai Mitzvah, please contact Sophia Schwab. She will guide you through the process of setting you up for a B’nai Mitzvah and help get you a date. 

When will my B’nai Mitzvah launch meeting be scheduled?
Your B’nai Mitzvah launch meeting with Rabbi Maderer will take place 7-8 months before the date of your child’s B’nai Mitzvah.  If that time has passed or you have any concerns feel free to reach out to Sophia Schwab.

Is there a fee for a B’nai Mitzvah?
There is not a fee for a B’nai Mitzvah, however there are fees for tutoring and requirements that must be met.  The B’nai Mitzvah student must be enrolled in Berkman Mercaz Limud for at least 4th-6th grade and the family must be members in good standing of Rodeph Shalom.  In addition, there is a $1200 fee for tutoring which is paid in two $600 installments. 

When will my child’s tutoring start?
Tutoring will start approximately 6 months before your child’s B’nai Mitzvah date.  About 2 weeks before that our B’nai Mitzvah coordinator will reach out to you with tutor’s availability.  Once a time is selected she will set you up with your tutor so you can begin. 

How frequently is tutoring?
Once a student starts their tutoring they will meet with their tutor weekly for 30 minute sessions.

What should I expect from a tutoring session?
Each session will last 30 minutes with the student and the tutor working together on a verse of Torah, any Haftarah and making progress on their blessings. Tutors will teach all the liturgy that the student will need to know on the day of their B’nai Mitzvah.  The students will be aided in their learning by recordings made by Cantor Hyman and by a packet of all materials that they will be given before they start their tutoring. 

Who do I contact if I have questions or want more information about the B’nai Mitzvah process? You can contact Sophia Schwab.

What should I expect on the day of the B’nai Mitzvah?
You will arrive at the synagogue 45 minutes before the service starts for a final rehearsal and some words from a member of the Board.  The B’nai Mitzvah will be called up to lead some prayers and to read from the Torah. In addition, parents will have a chance to offer a special blessing upon their child.  

I’d like to host my child’s/children’s celebration at Rodeph Shalom. Who do I contact to coordinate?
To coordinate the rental of celebratory spaces, please reach out to our Office Manager, Amy Salzman (267)- 930-7277

I have family who would like to watch the service from afar. Do you offer livestreaming options?
The Shabbat morning service is captured by our camera at the back of the sanctuary. The service will be livestreamed on our website at rodephshalom.org/livestream. If you are interested in a customized recording featuring close-ups, this is available for $500 and can be coordinated with our Office Manager, Amy Salzman (267)- 930-7277

I would like to make a donation to the Clergy Philanthropic Funds to express my appreciation. What steps do I need to take to make a donation?
Some families choose to donate to the clergy philanthropic funds to express appreciation to our clergy and to honor their child becoming a B’nai Mitzvah. To donate, visit: rodephshalom.org/make-a-donation.

How can I sponsor an oneg in honor of my child’s/children’s B’nai Mitzvah?
● Sponsoring Friday Evening Oneg
Some families celebrate by underwriting the cost of the Shabbat Oneg refreshments; there are two options available:
■ Standard Oneg – for $360 your family name is acknowledged in our program
■ Enhanced Oneg – for $450, in addition to the acknowledgment the oneg is enhanced with cheese and crackers

Email Sophia Schwab at least a week in advance to arrange to sponsor the Oneg.

How can I order floral arrangements for the bimah?
To coordinate floral arrangements on the bimah for the weekend of the B’nai Mitzvah at a cost of $360, please reach out at least a week in advance to Sophia Schwab.