Torat HaLev Bat and Bar Mitzvah Program A Student-Navigated Adventure for the Whole Family
What does it mean to become Bat or Bar-Mitzvah at Chochmat HaLev?
A Bat or Bar Mitzvah (a daughter or son of the commandments) is a transition from childhood to a more mature commitment to living Jewish values. It is a rite of passage witnessed, supported, and celebrated by community; a time when students have acquired some wisdom and are ready to teach something from their unique perspectives.
While the group aspects of our program are designed for early teenagers, this transition can occur at any age when one is ready for this responsibility. A typical scenario would be for students to join us in the fall, as they enter sixth or seventh grade.
We welcome your contact Have questions? Education Director Marla Kolman Antebi 510-704-9687 education@chochmat.org
Our Instructors Marla Kolman Antebi
Marlais founder and Director of the Torat HaLev school at Chochmat HaLev. She is a Jewish educator, community organizer, group facilitator and peace activist. She has a B.A. in Child Development, an M.S.W. in Community Organizing, and received smicha (ordination) as a Morah L'Hitbodedut, a teacher of Jewish Meditation. For over 15 years she has run programs and workshops for all ages on the local, national and international levels.
Reb Brian Yosef Schachter-Brooks
Brian serves at Chochmat HaLev in Berkeley teaching meditation and Jewish spirituality, leading musical prayer and conducting the musicians. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Musical Composition from the Eastman School of Music. He received smicha (ordination) as Minister of Sacred Music from Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, as well as Teacher of Jewish Meditation from Chochmat HaLev.
Rabbi SaraLeya Schley Rabbi Schley will develop a personal relationship with each bat and bar-mitzvah student and their families. She will lead the families in some group learning sessions, set the tone for the ceremony, and help the students deepen their understanding of their particular Torah portions.
