The Hineni B'nei Mitzvah Program is an optional experience for families and students who want a more intensive learning program leading up to the Bar, Bat, or B'nei Mitzvah service. Students and parents meet as a cohort six times during the year leading up to the Bar or Bat Mitzvah, typically on Saturday afternoons from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. At least one parent must be present at all Hineni workshops.
When and where do Hineni services take place?
Hineni services are held at all of our campuses. Hineni services can take place either on Shabbat morning (10:00 AM) or Shabbat afternoon (4:30 PM). Afternoon services are only available for Hineni families.
Why do I have to participate in the Hineni program in order to have a 4:30 PM service?
Participants in the Hineni program are able to personalize the service based on the learning within the program. We feel it would be uncomfortable during a shared service if one child has elements of personalization and the other does not. Therefore, we opened an alternative service time for our Hineni students, 4:30 PM. Hineni students are guaranteed a single service, unless requested otherwise.
How are Hineni services the same, or different, from a typical non-Hineni service?
The services are identical depending on the time of day, unless the student chooses to personalize the service. Additionally, during the winter months, Hineni program families have the option to add the short Havdalah ritual at the end of the 4:30 PM B’nei Mitzvah service.
Who teaches the classes?
The classes are taught by our officiating clergy.
What do we learn about in the Hineni program?
During each Hineni workshop, we focus on a different element of the B’nei Mitzvah experience such as Torah, Haftarah, making prayer meaningful, music and theology.
What is the cost of the program?
There is no additional cost for participation.
What is the attendance policy for the Hineni program?
Students and parents will meet as a cohort from 3 PM - 5 PM on Saturday afternoons (six times total), in the year leading up to the B'nei Mitzvah service. All sessions of the program are mandatory and critical to your child's preparation. Of course, we understand that some absences cannot be avoided (out of town, illness, etc.) and you may request an excused absence and to schedule a make-up class. Please note that we will not give excused absences for extracurricular activities (soccer, dance, etc.). After two unexcused absences families will be welcome to continue participating in the Hineni sessions, but may no longer be eligible for a single service or a 4:30 PM service. Please know that this will likely necessitate a rescheduling of your child's Bar or Bat Mitzvah date if they are scheduled for a 4:30 PM service.
Please confirm your participation/interest below. If you have further questions, please contact Jen Kaufman at jkaufman@wbtla.org.