6 Girls Unite for Bat Mitzvah

Chabad of Marina del Rey recently celebrated a beautiful occasion.

Six Jewish girls came together, with the help of Chabad of Marina’s Bas Mitzvah Club to hold a joint Bas Mitzvah for all of the girls and their families. As the girls all come from a variety of Jewish backgrounds, it was a great chance for the girls to instill Jewish pride in themselves, and learn more about themselves and what it means to be a bas Yisrael.

The event was set up beautifully in blue, decorated with feathers and candelabras to emphasize the elegant atmosphere.

By Hashgacha Pratis, the joint Bat Mitzvah was on Rosh Chodesh Sivan—the day upon which the Yidden came to Har Sinai. The Torah was given when the Jews were united, Ke-ish Echad Bleiv Echad. When Hashem saw that the Jews were not focusing on their differences but had one common goal in mind, with this unity Hashem gave the Torah. That spirit of unity and togetherness despite difference prevailed throughout the event.

The schedule of the evening included time for socializing at a meet-and-greet, fun pictures in a photo booth, and a delicious, gourmet dinner.

Rabbi Danny Yiftach, Director of Chabad of Marina del Rey, read the Rebbe’s letter that was written specifically to Bas Mitzvah girls, and spoke to the girls and their families about what becoming a Bas Mitzvah means for them, and how Judaism is a way of life, and meant to be lived with intent and planning. Rabbi Mendy Avtzon also addressed the crowd, speaking about these children being the guarantors of Judaism for the future, and what that means for them.

Afterwards, each girl gave a short speech on either what the Bas Mitzvah means to them, a personal lesson from the Parsha, or how Bas Mitzvah Club has affected not just them but also their families—for example, one girl and her mother and sister light Shabbos candles every week now. Another girl spoke about how her experience in the club has made her a more proud and stronger Jew, even though she is surrounded by non-Jews in public school.

Following the speeches was a candle-lighting ceremony, wherein each girl thanked her mother for bringing light and warmth into their lives as they lit a candle together.

Mrs. Mushky Yiftach then spoke about the three gifts that Hashem gave the Jewish women, and how this moment is a special time to ask for a blessing. Connecting to that, Rebbetzin Sonya Yiftach made the bracha of Hafrashat Challah with the girls and all ladies present, and each girl braided her own dough and put on the toppings of her choice.

Adding to the celebration, Mrs. Gloria Benveniste-Wertleib presented each girl with a Tree of Life necklace, and an expert Hypnotist entertained the crowd.

A delicious dessert buffet closed the evening, and all of the guests were overwhelmed and touched by how meaningful, fun, and inspiring it was.

Mazal tov and congratulations to Tess, Ruby, Rachel, Rachel, Elizabeth, and Violet!